Colette & Matt Have Entered the Chat

244 JUMP SPACE Might Be the Space Game I've Been Waiting For

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 3 Apr 2026 19:48:53 +0000

OK, hear us out: What if we start an X-Files re-watch podcast?

Surely no one has thought of that yet? Colette continues her Resident Evil residency with the remake of the 3rd installment, yet the side content of RE2 still calls.

Meanwhile, Matt has played every spaceship game on Steam and decided that Jump Ship has the juice for a long voyage.

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243 You Should Try The 'Tomodachi Life' Demo

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 18:57:48 +0000

Colette goes back to 2019 for the Resident Evil 2 Remake, which itself goes back to 1998.

Plus, a cozy mobile life sim, and the glorious reasons you should fire up the Tomodachi Life demo on Switch.

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242 We Have Questions About Nvidia's New DLSS 5

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 20 Mar 2026 07:00:00 +0000

Nvidia unveiled its next AI upscaling tech for video games, and it...sure is something!

We discuss our concerns and hope for this kind of tech.

Plus: More Resident Evil nonsense and the Twin-Stick Shooter renaissance.

Games and articles discussed in this episode:

https://www.gamesradar.com/games/after-4-years-of-work-solo-dev-breaks-down-in-tears-after-opening-steam-and-learning-his-game-made-usd250-000-in-a-week-i-feel-like-i-really-dont-deserve-this/

https://www.tomshardware.com/pc-components/gpus/jensen-huang-says-gamers-are-completely-wrong-about-dlss-5-nvidia-ceo-responds-to-dlss-5-backlash

https://store.steampowered.com/app/1634860/Minishoot_Adventures/

https://store.steampowered.com/app/4029380/Pathogenic_Demo/

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241 Resident Evil, but Make It Sexy

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 14 Mar 2026 22:53:28 +0000

Have you tried playing Resident Evil Requiem nude? Games discussed:

https://store.steampowered.com/app/3764200/Resident_Evil_Requiem/ https://store.steampowered.com/app/3010610/LOVE_ETERNAL/ https://store.steampowered.com/app/3241970/Heroes_of_Might_and_Magic_Olden_Era_Demo/ https://store.steampowered.com/app/4308510/Everything_is_Crab_The_Animal_Evolution_Roguelite_Demo/

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240 "Vampire Crawlers" Is Not Your Average Deck Builder

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 28 Feb 2026 01:33:16 +0000

Steam Next Fest is here, "Stardew Valley" turns 10, and Poncle is at it again...

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239 Two Boomers Agree Things Ain't What They Used to Be: RAMpocalypse Edition

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 21 Feb 2026 01:30:09 +0000

Is short-form algorithmic content destroying the world? Probably.

Are AI server farms screwing up our 2026 gaming plans? Definitely.

Also, remember the Ninja Turtles?

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238 I Don't Want to Be a Chicken Man: Sony's State of Play, Feb 2026

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 21:13:31 +0000

Mewgenics is finally here, and it's mostly great, except for a few ... concerns.

And Sony revealed a slate of remakes, sequels, and 3rd party nonsense at their February State of Play which includes a chicken sword muscle man for some reason?

Matt flies solo for this recap episode.

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237 So, how about that new Tomodachi Life video, eh?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Thu, 5 Feb 2026 21:47:16 +0000

You're welcome.

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236 Should Video Game Critics Be Less Negative?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 30 Jan 2026 15:59:34 +0000

The free to play horse shooter Highguard released this week, and within 5 minutes, the entire Internet agreed that it sucks. Coincidentally(?), the CEO of Larian Studios posted a lengthy comment about how criticism of video games has become too mean and too personal, which discourages artists from taking risks and failing.

This week, we unpack the discourse around hot take negativity, the process of being vulnerable as an artist, and why the business model of algorithmic media pushes so many of us into the trap.

Links discussed in this episode:

https://www.rockpapershotgun.com/baldurs-gate-3-studio-boss-calls-out-hurtful-personal-videogame-reviewers-sometimes-i-think-itd-be-a-good-idea-for-critics-to-be-scored-metacritic-style

https://www.dexerto.com/gaming/highguard-devs-say-they-didnt-expect-the-hate-but-theyre-confident-in-their-game-3309463/

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235 We Only Play Video Games From the 2010s Now

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 24 Jan 2026 23:14:11 +0000

This week in The Chat, we peruse the latest offerings from the Xbox Developer Direct, discuss the appeal of Fable, and hear about what it’s like to play a 16-year-old game with 800 mods (spoiler: pretty good).

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234 What Are the Most Overrated Video Games?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 17 Jan 2026 19:39:29 +0000

What beloved video games do you find insufferable? A lively discussion in our Discord community brought us to philosophical analysis of subjectivity.

Plus, Steam updates its AI disclosure guidelines, which seem like a step in the right direction yet still not granular enough.

And what's the deal with the "Cory In The House" DS game selling for thousands on eBay?

Links discussed in this episode:

Jenna Stoeber: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yjf-GPp3n5k

Overrated games: https://www.reddit.com/r/AskReddit/comments/1qcl73d/whats_the_most_overrated_video_game_of_all_time/

Arc Raiders is still popular: https://gamerant.com/arc-raiders-has-already-sold-24m-copies-in-2026/

Cory: https://www.gamespot.com/articles/online-auctions-for-cory-in-the-house-ds-game-are-asking-for-hundreds-amid-meme-campaign/1100-6537472/

Valve's rules: https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/valve-has-significantly-rewritten-steams-rules-for-how-developers-much-disclose-ai-use/

Hank Green, Why is Everyone So Wrong About AI Water Use??: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H_c6MWk7PQc

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233 Our 5 Favorite Games of 2025 (Part 2)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sun, 11 Jan 2026 23:30:39 +0000

Colette and Matt reveal their top 3 game of the year picks for 2025 and what made them so outstanding.

Enjoy, and hop into the discord and let us know what your GOTY picks were for 2025 and what games you’re most looking forward to in 2026!

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232 Our Top 5 Games of 2025 (Part 1)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 2 Jan 2026 20:52:00 +0000

As bury 2025 in the dust, we dig into one of our very favorite episodes to do: Best Games of 2025 (or GOTY, as some of us fondly call it). Matt and Colette have never been able to narrow their lists down to fewer than 5, PLUS honorable mentions, so this episode digs into the latter as well as our #5 and #4 picks. However, we had so much to say that this is a two-parter, so please tune in again next week to hear our top 3 picks for GOTY.

Drop by and let us know what games made your list in our Discord, a cozy lil' community where everyone is actually super nice. For real.

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231 Our Favorite Announcements From the 2025 Game Awards

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 19 Dec 2025 21:50:15 +0000

Ah yes, The Video Game Awards: Not normally a thing we wait with bated breath for, but Colette pretty much tuned in just to watch Expedition 33 sweep (which, of course, it did). Aside from French Victory, however, there were many new trailers from big names, including a new chapter in the Control series from our beloved Remedy Entertainment, a new FPS IP from former Apex Legends devs, and a highly memorable Divinity trailer (almost) more nauseating than the news that Larian is embracing AI to make its future games.

Tune in and let us know what trailers you were the most excited about and, more importantly, why it took this long for Lenny Kravitz to be cast as a video game villain.

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230 Finally, a Video Game Where You Can Make Bugs Kiss | Everything From Wholesome Snack 2025

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 12 Dec 2025 08:00:00 +0000

We dive deep this week into the Wholesome Snack showcase, which aired on December 9 and was, per the usual, packed with absolute delights from beginning to end. From thrift store shop simulators and bug dating sims to summer camp as experienced through the eyes of non-verbal kids, Wholesome Games continues to champion some of the most meaningful indies in the space today.

Bonus: The last ten minutes are basically Colette losing her shit over the Rhythm Tengoku series AGAIN and forcing Matt to endure it.

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229 Nine Reasons 'Arc Raiders' Is the Best Multiplayer Video Game I've Ever Played (+Steam Games on Your Telephone?!)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 5 Dec 2025 15:57:02 +0000

Valve surprises us (again) this week as we discover it's been nurturing the ingredients for a long-term plan that could potentially bring Steam games to every possible platform, including your phone. How it found time to do this while developing an entire ecosystem of new hardware, we'll never know. TL;DR - Gabe for president, please.

We also discuss Colette's very first foray into the vast universe that is Stardew Valley mods and whether it feels like fun or bad fanfic. Finally, for those of you unable to peel your eyeballs off Arc Raiders, Matt presents his thesis on the popular extraction shooter, which prominently features multiple cat tails. It can't be explained - only WITNESSED to be believed.

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228 What Is an "Indie" Video Game, Anyway?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 22 Nov 2025 18:41:41 +0000

With this year’s Golden Joystick Awards in the books and Sandfall Games winning a slew of awards for Expedition 33, as well as Megabonk’s dev “John Megabonk” withdrawing himself from a nomination, Matt and Colette dive deep into the “indie” darlings to question what exactly an indie game is, and what separates it from a traditional title. Is it still indie if there were angel investors or a trust fund backing the game’s creation?

We also discuss Vampire Crawlers, the newest chapter in what Matt has rightfully deemed the Poncleverse. Is mashing Vampire Survivors with the old dungeon crawlers of yore pure genius, or just a way to keep gamers interested in Luca Galante’s delightful brand of Italian gothic?

Finally, Matt realizes he can get Jeni’s ice cream at the drugstore and experiences a revelation. Tune in to hear it in real time!

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227 SteamOS Is Coming to a Livingroom Near You, But How Much Will It Cost?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 14 Nov 2025 16:07:48 +0000

After months of rumors and leaks, Valve has officially announced 3 new hardware products that could transform console gaming and VR:

A new Steam Controller (modeled after the Steam Deck's form factor), a new Steam Machine console, perfect for couch gaming, and the Steam Frame, a new inside-out, wireless VR headset that can run games natively and stream them from your PC.

These three devices, on top of the handheld experience offered by the Steam Deck, along with years of updates and iterations to SteamOS and Steam Input, puts Valve in a fascinating position to completely upend what "console gaming" means in the next decade.

We discuss the specs, potential price points, and our excitement around the SteamOS ecosystem.

Plus: Rockstar Games apparently sucks.

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226 An Oral History of Video Game Oral Histories 🎮 With Matt Leone of Design Room

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 7 Nov 2025 17:43:41 +0000

Matt Leone has been a video game journalist since he was 10 years old printing fanzines' on his grandparents' computer.

Very few people read those, but very MANY people have read his incredibly in-depth oral histories of the industry's most influential games and franchises: Street Fighter II, Final Fantasy 7, Crash Bandicoot, Morrowind, and more. In them, he tracks down everyone who touched development to recount the creative and business environments in which they were forged.

After a decade at 1up.com and 13 years at Polygon, he and a merry band of freelancers have taken the oral history project independent, with a subscription-funded site called Design Room.

Colette and Matt sit down with (other) Matt to discuss his career, the process of creating these rich historical documents, his latest piece about "Shadow of the Colossus," and what happens when video game devs don't want to talk — or worse: die without telling their stories.

Go read Design Room now! https://www.designroom.site/

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225 "Arc Raiders" Nails the Vibes and Tension for a Perfect Extraction Shooter

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 31 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Colette embarks on her second playthrough of Silent Hill f, which she claims is the best Silent Hill since 2.

Meanwhile, Embark (the studio) launches Arc Raiders. Matt recounts his time during the server slam, and why this game could be the next big thing.

Also, remember ICQ?

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224 It's Finally Here: Why BALL x PIT Does Everything Right

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 17 Oct 2025 12:56:20 +0000

After years of mobile-first strategy, Netflix has announced its foray into game streaming with a focus on couch co-op party games - including a heavy hitter. We discuss why this makes a ton of sense for the streamer.

Plus: The lingering secrets in "Expedition 33," why the new side-scrolling beat-em-up "Absolum" hits so hard, and the triumphant release of dopamine generator "BALL x PIT," which mixes "Space Invaders," "Vampire Survivors," and "Breakout" into a perfect video game.

Watch the video version of this episode here: https://youtu.be/NbU_WbHZo6s

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223 What Is This Mysterious Short Film on Nintendo's YouTube Channel?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 10 Oct 2025 07:00:00 +0000

So Nintendo uploaded a thing to their YouTube channel with ZERO context, and the Internet has been wondering what's the point. But details in the Nintendo Today app have new clues.

PLUS: We are hopelessly addicted to Megabonk, because it's Vampire Survivors in 3D with jumping!

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222 What's the Value Proposition of Xbox Game Pass in 2025?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 3 Oct 2025 12:08:58 +0000

Xbox Game Pass just got significantly more expensive and subscribers are freaking out (and canceling in droves).The value proposition — unlimited access to 500+ games for $30/month — is still unprecedented. But as the cost of streaming and living rises across the board, and the hours we have to enjoy remain the same, that equation quickly gets more complicated.

We break down the value of Game Pass in a 2025 media ecosystem, and the future of subscription (and Cloud-based) game services.

Plus: An update on SILENT HILL f, and a game about many numbers going up at the same time.

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221 Is "Silent Hill f" the Best Silent Hill Ever?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 26 Sep 2025 22:40:00 +0000

Colette played 4 hours of "Silent Hill f" in one sitting. So, is it good?

(yes)

And Matt has a spiritual awakening thanks to digital fur babies (some of whom are dead).

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220 We Need to Talk About That Unhinged Nintendo Direct

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 19 Sep 2025 12:36:58 +0000

Hey, uh...Nintendo? Yeah.

Could we have a quick word?

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219 What Makes "Hollow Knight" the Best of Its Genre? (w/ Silksong Maniac Sky Burkson)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 14:19:03 +0000

Hey! There's a new game out called Silksong, and apparently it's good?

Deranged Metroidvandia fanatic Sky Burkson returns to the pod to school us on how Hollow Knight became a genre-defining (refining?) game, and why the long wait for its sequel turned into an Internet-breaking cultural phenomenon that's definitely not for everyone.

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218 Silksong (Literally) Breaks the Internet and What Is the Mysterious "Steam Frame?"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 5 Sep 2025 22:15:57 +0000

Seven years of hype for "Hollow Knight: Silksong" literally took down Steam and Nintendo eShop servers when the game debuted this week as millions of fans rushed to buy and play the sequel. And we couldn't be happier for the small, devoted indie team that made it.

Meanwhile, "No Man's Sky" released its 6.0 update called "Voyagers" that allows players to build their own custom corvettes, which lead to an enormous spike in players for the 9-year-old game.

And Valve has patented a "Steam Frame," which sounds an awful lot like their rumored VR headset. Is new Steam hardware imminent?

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217 Expedition 33 [SPOILERCAST] / Why We Need a Game About Grief More Than Ever

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 29 Aug 2025 12:48:20 +0000

Colette has finished "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33" (and on her second playthrough) and Matt has watched all of the game's cinematics. And one thing is certain:

We have been forever changed by this unbelievable work of art.

This week, we go full spoiler mode on the plot, lore, characters, theories, cultural impact, and existential meaning of this extraordinary game, and why a French surrealist fever dream about grief is the LEAST commercial idea imaginable, yet an undeniable smash hit for the games industry (and why the world needs it more than ever).

Obviously, this episode contains super duper SPOILERS for Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. You have been warned.

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216 You Should Play This Dirt-Cheap Isometric Zombie Extraction Shooter

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 22 Aug 2025 07:00:00 +0000

Gamescom and the Future Games show came out swinging this week, with roughly 4 billion trailers - most of them featuring dudes with guns wearing helmets.

We barely scratch the surface as we scramble to catch up, but a few items did catch our eye.

Plus, Colette digs in on a new isometric co-op extraction shooter with huge potential, and Matt goes hard on Cyberpunk 2077.

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215 Building a New (Old?) Model for Games Journalism, One Subscriber at a Time (w/ Luke Plunkett)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 15 Aug 2025 13:58:34 +0000

If you've read a video game article on the Internet in the last two decades, chances are it was written by Luke Plunkett. His tenure at Kotaku spanned 17 years, and all the highs and lows of the digital media rollercoaster.

When the bottom eventually fell out, he and other games media refugees co-founded Aftermath, a worker-owned video game news and commentary site, whose business model eschews advertising, SEO, and clickbait in favor of — get this — reader subscriptions!

Luke joins us to discuss the evolution of games media, getting paid $10 to post pictures of cake on Kotaku in 2006, living on the opposite side of the world from his co-workers, and why we are entering a new and (hopefully) more sustainable era for online journalism.

Connect with Luke:

https://www.lukeplunkett.com/

https://aftermath.site/

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214 Silksong Confirmed (to not be) at Nintendo's Partner Direct

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Thu, 31 Jul 2025 17:56:13 +0000

Nintendo shared 25 minutes of 3rd party games in its first Direct since the launch of the Switch 2, and it was a fascinating mix of ports, sequels, demos, and new IP.

We run down everything that was announced and share our reactions to one of the worst video game titles in history.

Plus: A psychological horror game where you can't leave your house (aka real life) and building a town on the back of a dinosaur.

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213 Banks Are Deciding What Video Games You're Allowed to Buy, and It's Not the First Time (w/ games journalist Ana Valens)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 26 Jul 2025 00:02:22 +0000

Hundreds of NSFW games were removed from Steam last week after Valve quietly changed some policies around adult content. But journalists realized it was actually the payment processors — Visa and Mastercard — who refused to complete transactions around certain kinds of porn.

Digging deeper, it was revealed that a small Australian conservative activism group was taking a victory lap around Steam's porn purge, all in the name of "protecting children" from "harmful content." And they are targeting Itch.io next, which has already de-indexed many adult games.

So how did a tiny group of pearl-clutchers convince two multi-national banking conglomerates to censor the world's largest video game marketplace?

Games journalist Ana Valens attempted to answer this with two reported articles on Vice's gaming site Waypoint. But those articles were taken down by Vice's corporate owners, prompting Ana (and many of her colleagues) to immediately quit.

This week, Ana joins Matt to discuss this legally and ethically complex issue, why banks can now decide what art we're allowed to see on the Internet, the pressing threat for the LGBTQ+ community, and what we can (actually) do about it.

If this conversation inspired you to take action, please discuss it in our Discord, check out the links below, and follow Ana's work:

Both archived articles: https://archive.ph/USxe6 + https://archive.ph/x5cGQ

https://yellat.money/

Follow Ana on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/acvalens.net

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212 "Donkey Kong Bananza" Is Pure Video Game Joy

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 18 Jul 2025 19:54:27 +0000

"Donkey Kong Bananza" lets you go anywhere and punch anything, with almost no limitations, cooldowns, or stamina meters. Everything about it is bad game design.

So what makes it such a perfect video game? Matt unpacks the joy in DK's ridiculous feel and physics.

Plus: The difficulty ramps up as Colette approaches the end of "Expedition 33," and we discuss what it feels like to be cremated (aka living in Atlanta in the summer).

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211 It's Official: Stardew Is the Highest Rated Game of All Time

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 11 Jul 2025 14:08:09 +0000

Nine years after its initial release, "Stardew Valley" has dethroned "Portal 2" as the highest-rated game on Steam. We discuss this huge achievement and the business of providing long-term value to players in a world of short-term thinking.

But it's impossible to kick off the pod without discussing Microsoft's latest round of layoffs, with 9,000 people out of the job, many in the Xbox division. This has led to the cancelation of many promising games. The looming specter of AI certainly plays a role here.

And speaking of people losing their jobs, the leaders of "Subnautica's" studio Unknown Worlds were recently told to kick rocks by their parent company Krafton, right before the release of one of the most-wishlisted video games of all time: "Subnautica 2." The community is livid, and new revelations hint at some unsavory details.

And Colette shares an update on her progress in "Expedition 33."

https://www.theverge.com/news/697125/microsoft-xbox-layoffs-2025

https://www.dexerto.com/stardew-valley/stardew-valley-dethrones-valve-classic-as-steams-top-rated-game-3224023/

https://www.wired.com/story/video-games-voice-actors-strike-over-artificial-intelligence/

https://gamerant.com/subnautica-2-founder-statement/

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2025-07-09/krafton-delays-subnautica-2-game-ahead-of-250-million-payout

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Introducing: TALES FROM THE CLOUD SEA, an improvised comedy adventure podcast for kids and families!

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 4 Jul 2025 07:00:00 +0000

We're taking the week off, but hope you'll check out Matt's new improv comedy podcast for kids and families!

Listen to the first episode here, share it with the kids in your life, and subscribe wherever you get your favorite podcasts:

https://www.talesfromthecloudsea.com/

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210 Overwhelmingly Negative

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 27 Jun 2025 13:48:21 +0000

"Overwhelmingly Negative" describes every time you turn on the news, AND Capcom's 7th best-selling game of all time.

Despite selling 10 million copies at $70 each, "Monster Hunter Wilds" has officially crossed over to "Overwhelmingly Negative" reviews on Steam, an extraordinary achievement reserved only for the crappiest games and developers. So where did it all go wrong for Capcom's flagship franchise?

Plus: A creep-tastic horror game for our age of paranoia, the return of "Lost in Random," why Matt uninstalled "Expedition 33," and a whole lot of fish sex.

Items discussed in today's episode:

https://www.windowscentral.com/gaming/monster-hunter-wilds-reviews-hit-overwhelmingly-negative-on-steam-players-decry-the-games-poor-endgame-and-pc-performance

https://www.videogamer.com/news/dune-awakening-is-funcoms-fastest-selling-game-ever/

https://store.steampowered.com/app/3180070/No_Im_not_a_Human/

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2564520/Lost_in_Random_The_Eternal_Die/

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2581950/Tiny_Aquarium_Social_Fishkeeping/

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209 BALL x PIT = Vampire Survivors + Arkanoid + Tetris(?) + City Builder + Peggle

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 20 Jun 2025 15:24:03 +0000

Holy f$@ing s&!*balls, stop whatever you're doing and play this demo and then get sad because you're done with the demo and you wish the game was out DEAR GOD WHEN WILL IT COME OUTTt

We discuss our new obsession with BALL x PIT.

Also, that new Donkey Kong game looked fine, but then they showed more of it and OMG GIVE IT TO ME NOW.

Plus: Matt launched a new podcast for kids and he swears it's really good.

https://store.steampowered.com/app/2062430/BALL_x_PIT/

https://www.talesfromthecloudsea.com/

Goodbye.

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208 LET ME PUT A HAT ON MY GOOMBA YOU COWARDS

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 13 Jun 2025 21:59:43 +0000

Konami had their own games showcase this week, which no one knew or cared about, until...

...a remake of the original Silent Hill was announced. Colette screams into her microphone with the Blooberific details.

And Matt shares his impressions of the Switch 2 hardware, user experience, GameChat, and of course the beefiest Mario Kart game ever.

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207 State of Play, Summer Game Fest, Wholesome Games, Xbox Showcase, Switch 2...

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Mon, 9 Jun 2025 11:49:23 +0000

aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaAAAAAahhhhhhhhhaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaahhhhhhHHHHHHHHHHHHHhhhhhhhhh

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206 The Most Popular Game on Earth Was Made By a Teenager in 3 Days (and You've Probably Never Heard of It)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 30 May 2025 15:07:53 +0000

The most popular video game in the world this week isn't Fortnite or Minecraft. In fact, you've probably never heard of it.

But 9 million people were playing it concurrently. For context, Steam had 11.5 million concurrent players across ALL GAMES that same day.

So, WTF is going on with "Grow a Garden," a game inside Roblox that a teenager whipped up in 3 days?

Also: Cloud streaming just got slightly better on your Steam Deck, and Colette sends an update from the front lines of Expedition 33.

Articles discussed in this episode:

https://www.pcgamer.com/games/survival-crafting/a-roblox-farming-game-made-by-a-teenager-in-like-three-days-had-8-9-million-players-online-at-the-same-time-steam-peaked-at-11-5-million-across-all-games-on-the-same-day/

https://overkill.wtf/native-geforce-now-app/

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205 AI Darth Vader Is an Interesting Idea That Blew Up In Fortnite's Face

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 23 May 2025 13:53:21 +0000

Fortnite's current Star Wars season is a blast, and a chance encounter with Darth Vader allows you to converse with him via voice chat. His responses are synthesized with AI, and the voice you hear is that of James Earl Jones, whose estate agreed to the AI cloning.

The idea of a video game NPC responding to your actions and talking to you with context (rather than canned responses) is an exciting prospect for the future of games. But in this case, there are two problems:

Players and streamers immediately figured out how to get Vader to drop F-bombs and say racial slurs. And while the voice was generated with permission, it comes at a time when actors unions like SAG-AFTRA are in active negotiations with video game companies about the use of AI and the future security of their jobs.

The result has been an uproar about the ethics, legality, and future of the medium.

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204 "Wildgate" Is My Favorite Game of 2025 and I Will Literally Die If It Doesn't Come Out Soon

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 16 May 2025 07:00:00 +0000

After the sad news that Giant Bomb might be shutting down, we got the happier news that Fandom has sold the company to ... itself! Making the venerated site independent at long last. But can it survive in the current creator-driven marketplace?

Plus, the creator of "Katamari Damacy" has a new game on the horizon, the difficulty curve of "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33" gets steeper, and why the new game from Blizzard ex-pats, "Wildgate," is Matt's new obsession. Now if only it would release.

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203 The New GTA 6 Trailer Has S-Tier Butt Animations

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 9 May 2025 15:31:52 +0000

The second trailer for GTA 6 has 90 million views in 3 days. Why? The butts, of course.

We react in real time to the new footage, and share why we probably don't care about it.

Plus: The legacy of Polygon, Giant Bomb, and a few indie games that scratch a very particular itch.

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202 Stop What You're Doing and Play "Clair Obcsur: Expedition 33" Immediately

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 2 May 2025 13:14:06 +0000

So, did you secure a Switch 2 pre-order? Neither did we.

Matt shares his quest (both online and IRL) to procure one. And if you thought Nintendo games got more expensive, wait until you hear what Microsoft has planned. The good news is: Colette has a solution.

Plus, Apple messed up big time in its fight with Epic over app store payments, and corporate hammers come down hard on Polygon and Giant Bomb.

Meanwhile, Matt shares the magic of co-op tabletop tactics adventure of "Sunderfolk," and Colette craps her pants over the brilliance of "Clair Obscur: Expedition 33."

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201 Discord Gets a New CEO and Oblivion Gets a Facelift

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 07:00:00 +0000

After a week of tariff confusion, exceptions, backpedaling, and wait-and-seeism, Nintendo announced that Switch 2 pre-orders are back on the table with no price increase for the console itself. Peripherals are another story.

So, given the uncertainty, economic climate, and lack of Switch 2 launch games, will you be pre-ordering?

Plus, we tackle the breaking news of Discord's CEO stepping aside in favor of an Activision-Blizzard money man, with an IPO looming in the near future. The Internet is bracing for "enshittification," but given Discord's current business model, how worried should we be? And what could Discord become in the future that would justify kowtowing to public shareholders? We make our armchair predictions.

Also: That new Elder Scrolls Oblivion remaster sure does look purdy.

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200 We Now Return To Tariff Talk™, Already In Progress

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 12 Apr 2025 17:04:20 +0000

Will U.S. tariffs affect the price of phones, computers, and most importantly, the Switch 2? Well, it depends what hour of the day you're asking.

We discuss the proposals, postponements, and now exceptions that could affect games.

Also: What if Factorio and Stardew Valley had a baby?

Thanks for hanging out with us for 200 episodes!

Check out the playtest of Little Rocket Lab: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2451100/Little_Rocket_Lab/

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199 A $90 video game? In this economy? Nintendo Switch 2 Has Entered the Chat

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 4 Apr 2025 12:19:53 +0000

Nintendo unveiled the specs, features, and games for the Nintendo Switch 2, and hype was had for all.

And then the pricing was announced, and online sentiment went from excitement to concern, and even anger.

So what is the value proposition of the Switch 2? What would you pay to upgrade your Switch 1 games? And how does this all factor in to a marketplace where thousands of Steam games are still $10-$15, and unhinged tariffs are just starting to hit?

We break down everything announced in the Switch 2 Direct, our feelings about it, and the sentiment from our listening community.

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198 Everything Announced at the Nintendo Switch March Direct

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 17:20:12 +0000

Nintendo had a Direct right before their OTHER Direct, which will reveal more details about the upcoming Switch 2.

What could possibly be in the latest Switch 1 Direct? Well, a whole damn lot!

New Metroid Prime 4 footage, a return to some funky weird franchises, and a brand new way to share digital games with family and friends.

And if you can't get enough Nintendo news Direct-ly, there's now an app for that.

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197 Our Favorite Reveals From the Future Games Show

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 16:49:35 +0000

Hey, you. Have you heard of the Future Games Show?

Neither have we. But it sure did reveal some bangers this week. From AAA epics and indie darlings, we pluck out the trailers and demos that caught our attention.

Plus, Netflix revealed it's creating a cozy MMO called "Spirit Crossing," which sure does have some Studio Ghibli vibes. We discuss what this means for the streamer, which has typically only licensed mobile games from app stores, rather than create original IP.

And Colette shares her first impressions of the co-op friend-em-up "Split Fiction."

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196 All Your "Pokémon GO" Data Now Belongs to the Saudi Government

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 13:00:59 +0000

Niantic, makers of such hits as "Pokémon GO" and...the rest...has sold the location-based creature-enslaving walk-em-up for $3.5 billion.

One catch: The buyer is Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, a portfolio that's increasingly invested in tech and games. The Saudi government doesn't have the best track record on human rights, and its new access to millions of Pokémon Trainers' IRL location data has some players freaked out. We discuss the geopolitical ramifications (cuz we r eXpErTs).

Plus: A classic Bethesda RPG is probably being reborn in Unreal Engine 5, what if Link had a keytar instead of a sword, cats doing cat things, Steam's most-played demo is also its most-hated, and the weird physics reason your ancient Super Nintendo is running slightly faster now.

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195 "Monster Hunter Wilds" Runs and Looks Like Shit, But...

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 7 Mar 2025 13:03:05 +0000

Our exploration of outstanding Steam demos and upcoming indies continues. Colette kicks the tires on three more excellent games.

Also, what will the Internet do with "Command & Conquer's" source code? And will Discord become "enshittified" if it files for IPO?

Meanwhile, "Monster Hunter Wilds" is Capcom's fastest selling game ever (8 million copies in 3 days). There's only one problem: It runs like ass and looks like a PS3 game. Matt explains the technical drama, Capcom's unwillingness to acknowledge the issues, and why despite all this, he can't stop playing.

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194 Our Favorite Demos From Steam Next Fest 2025

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 23:19:20 +0000

Happy Steam Next Fest to all who celebrate! We break down the free demos that have been keeping us WELL-entertained over the past week.

Also, the fine line between Homage and Rip-Off, and a fascinating look at cozy indie game that was changed after players discovered it wasn't so cozy after all.

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193 'Marvel Rivals' Made $3 Billion. So Why Did the Entire U.S. Team Get Fired?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 15:22:07 +0000

The free-to-play hero arena battler "Marvel Rivals" has hit hard since its release in December, scooping up 40 million players and almost $3 billion in net revenue. So it's totally logical and not weird at all that its Chinese publisher NetEase just laid off the entire U.S. design team. We discuss the weird geopolitical landscape, and why the relatively young games industry still lacks labor protection amid massive profits.

Also, Colette goes hard on "Sworn," a new roguelike that borrows heavily from "Hades" in all the right ways.

https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/despite-its-big-success-marvel-rivals-director-and-others-have-been-laid-off/

https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/marvel-rivals-has-passed-40-million-players-as-netease-reports-net-revenue-of-2-9-billion/

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192 Sony's State of Play Had Tons of Bangers and No Sony Games

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 05:00:00 +0000

We run down the list of games revealed Wednesday in Sony's State of Play showcase, and add a bunch of PS5 games to our Steam wishlist because none of them are exclusive.

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191 Steam Just Released an Amazing New Feature We Love

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 7 Feb 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Good Guy Valve is at it again, this time with some handy yellow text that will be very helpful when considering your next Early Access purchase. And the wiki site Fandom dot Com suffers another exodus as the official Warframe wiki moves off the crappy ad-infested site.

Plus, the gayest match 3 game ever, and hitting the road with Indiana Jones.

Colette's playing: Spirit Swap: Lofi Beats to Match-3 To & Hello Kitty Island Adventure

Matt's playing: Indiana Jones and the Great Circle

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190 You Should Play "Eternal Strands"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 31 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Colette is off this week, so Matt shares his early impressions of "Eternal Strands," a new action RPG that blends elements of "Breath of the Wild," "Control," and "Shadow of the Colossus."

Plus, the new update for No Man's Sky is excellent, and why won't dwarves bury their dead children anymore?

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189 Thirteen Games We Can't Wait to Play in 2025

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 15:50:39 +0000

Games are (probably) coming out in 2025!

We share the indie gems, fresh demos, and AAA bigguns we can't wait to play this year.

Also, social media is bad!

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188 It's Official: The Nintendo Switch 2 Is Exactly What We Thought

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 01:36:25 +0000

After months of leaks and rumors, Nintendo finally revealed ... exactly what we already knew. We react to the official announcement, run down the features that are confirmed, and speculate about what's next for the Switch 2.

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187 Is This What the Switch 2 Really Looks Like?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 10 Jan 2025 22:16:03 +0000

Rumors swirl about the "Switch 2" (or whatever it will be called) as case manufacturers, store listings, and CES drop an ocean's-worth of leaks about the next console's functionality and design, including one surprising new feature.

Speaking of handheld consoles, the upcoming Lenovo Legion Go S will be the first device besides the Steam Deck to natively support SteamOS. The partnership with Valve is a great sign that a Windows-free gaming world may be on the horizon.

Plus, a VR game where you conduct an orchestra of Sims!

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186 Our 2024 Games of the Year (aka "You Can't Hear a Tattoo)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 3 Jan 2025 08:00:00 +0000

Happy nude year.

We reveal our top 5 games of 2024 in REVERSE chronological order, which means the BEST ones come last!

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185 What We Want From a SteamOS Console (and Happy Holidays!)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 21 Dec 2024 16:05:21 +0000

Happy holidays one and all! We want to know what video games you're cozying up with in between family obligations this year.

Plus, we revisit the recent Valve leaks around a new Steam Controller, a SteamOS-powered under-the-TV box, and the possibility of a Steam streaming service.

More Metaphor, Path of Exile 2, a peek at the Steam Winter Sale, the last few days of our Discord game giveaway (courtesy of @cheshire48!) and signing off for the holiday break.

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184 The Game Awards Just Tripled Our Wishlists

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 14 Dec 2024 00:27:21 +0000

The 2024 Game Awards probably had some awards, but the real show is all about the trailers and reveals, and boy howdy, there were some big ones. We run down the games that joined our wishlists.

Plus: The disappointment of a promising indie, and why you should probably be playing "Path of Exile 2."

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183 Colette's True Love Revealed in Scandalous Leaked Audio

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 6 Dec 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Shocking private recordings, obtained exclusively by this podcast, reveal for the first time that Colette Bennet is madly in love with a 2007 video game man.

Meanwhile, we recount what our community played during the Thanksgiving weekend while hiding from their families.

Plus, janky spaceship adventures in "Void Crew," the tranquil beauty of "Moonring," and why "Puzzle Quest" is still hella dope after all these years.

If you want FREE video games, join our Discord community ASAP and enter to win a game every day in December, courtesy of our generous listener @cheshire48!

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182 Please Let These Steam Controller 2 Leaks Be True

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 23 Nov 2024 16:10:42 +0000

A credible leaker claims Valve is in the final stages of manufacturing a new Steam Controller, a device that the community has been clamoring for, especially after the Steam Deck's rise to hardware stardom. The dream controller (codenamed "Ibex") will hopefully have two track pads, two thumb sticks, and buttons on the back, bringing parity with the Deck itself. The leaker also hints at new developments for Valve's long-rumored standalone VR headset, "Deckard." We discuss what we want from these devices in the near future.

Also: Final Fantasy 14 on telephones? And what would the gaming landscape look like if Sony bought souls-maker From Software?

Plus: Colette shares the treasure trove of cooking games she got from Steam's recent sale.

https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/sony-is-reportedly-in-talks-to-acquire-fromsoftware-owner-kadokawa/

https://www.theverge.com/games/2024/11/19/24300757/valve-steam-controller-2-roy-deckard-leak

https://www.videogameschronicle.com/news/final-fantasy-14-mobile-announced/

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181 We Must Resist Buying This Sexy-Ass New Steam Deck

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 15 Nov 2024 23:13:04 +0000

Valve has released a stunning new limited edition OLED Steam Deck, and it's WHITE. We try very hard to not spend $700 on it.

Plus, the Warcraft remastered rumors were true, Xbox's confusing plans for 2025, and our continued adventures in "Metaphor," "Baldur's Gate," and a new MMO from NCSoft.

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180 It's Official: The "Switch 2" Will Be Backwards Compatible

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 8 Nov 2024 20:27:30 +0000

THIS IS FURUKAWA.

Nintendo has officially confirmed what we've all been waiting to hear. The successor to the Switch will play your existing library of games (and hopefully run them better!).

The news broke in a tweet after a CORPORATE MANAGEMENT POLICY BRIEFING, which is perfect timing since there's nothing else in the world or the news worth talking about.

Meanwhile, The New York Times' tech workers are on strike, which includes the team that supports Wordle. The Guild has asked subscribers to stop playing Wordle during the strike, which would break the years-long streaks of millions of players.

A "Mass Effect" TV show has been greenlit, and rumors of a "Warcraft 2" remaster are circulating.

Plus: More "Metaphor: ReFantazio," a new mobile "Wizardry" game, and a coffee table book filled with archival pages from EGM monthly.

https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/egmbook/egmcompendium

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179 You Can Finally* Listen to Nintendo Music on the Internet

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 2 Nov 2024 21:44:20 +0000

Nintendo fans, rejoice! For the first time ever, you can listen to your favorite songs from Mario, Zelda, and... Pikmin(?) on the Internet, thanks to Nintendo Music, a new streaming app that nobody asked for.

With video game music is hotter than ever, why would Nintendo skip the streaming services and build a standalone platform? And what will happen to all the music fans already get from YouTube? We discuss this strange and adorable development.

Plus: Our first impressions of cut scene simulator "Metaphor: ReFantazio," and hands-on with the beta for "Monster Hunter Wilds."

Also, for the love of God, please vote.

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178 We Have to Talk About Nintendo's Weird MMO Playtest

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 22:42:56 +0000

Some lucky Nintendo fans took part in a TOP SECRET online test for a new game, and were SWORN to SECRECY about it! Which means gameplay was leaked within 1.5 seconds.

Data miners excavated something codenamed "Rockstock," and as the playtest rolled out, images and videos of the blocky new build-em-up spreading across the Internet - much to the dismay of Nintendo.

So, what is this brand new MMO? And does it have the chops to stick around after the initial excitement wears off?

https://insider-gaming.com/nintendo-switch-online-playtest-program-has-been-datamined/

https://www.ign.com/articles/it-took-about-2-seconds-for-nintendos-mysterious-switch-game-to-leak

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177 Stop What You're Doing and Play These 7 Free Demos Now (w Sky Burkson)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 18 Oct 2024 18:42:29 +0000

Happy Steam Next Fest to all who celebrate! Miniaturist and friend of the show Sky Burkson returns to share the banger demos he's been dabbling with this week, and what it's like to make a Bloodborne sculpture for Jacksepticeye!

These are the demos we've been LOVING:

Rogue Flight

Heartworm

Empire of the Ants

The Spirit of the Samurai

Beastieball

Secret Agent Wizard Boy and the International Crime Syndicate

Windblown

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176 Nintendo's Big Hardware Announcement Is ... this friggin' alarm clock?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 11 Oct 2024 22:19:16 +0000

No one:

Nintendo: How 'bout waking up to coin sounds every time you move?

Nintendo's latest hardware is here, and it's a $100 alarm clock that turns your mornings into a psychotic fever dream. We discuss why it's weird, bad, and already sold out.

Plus: A fascinating (and seriously biased) deep dive into Roblox's horrible reputation.

Colette caved and started "Silent Hill 2," and boy is it GREAT.

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175 Ubisoft's Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 4 Oct 2024 21:50:48 +0000

Ubisoft can't catch a break. Their development costs are through the roof, their games are flopping, and the next entry in their marquee franchise "Assassins' Creed" has been delayed, sending share prices (and confidence) plummeting.

Plus, more notes on "Echoes of Wisdom," Matt's continued adventures in the Forgotten Realms of "Baldur's Gate 3," and a point-and-click mystery game on Colette's telephone!

Also, hurricanes: They seem bad! And we completely forgot to talk about the biggest story of the week, in which Nintendo finally busted out the lawyers on "Palworld."

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174 "Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom" Is a Wonderful Game That Runs Like Hot Garbage

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 27 Sep 2024 17:32:53 +0000

"The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom" came out for the Nintendo Switch this week, and it is charming, adorable, fun, and extremely innovative. There's just one problem: The frame rates whip around faster and harder than Tingle cashing in his rupees.

Due to the (now passed) hurricane in the Southern U.S., Colette takes a break this week (all is well) and Matt shares his early impressions of a wonderful game with very questionable tech.

Also, Sony's State of Play dropped some release dates, trailers, and updates that are well worth breaking down.

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173 WTF Is Going On With "Flappy Bird?"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 20 Sep 2024 07:00:00 +0000

A big announcement shook the Game-O-Verse to its core earlier this week. "Flappy Bird," the massively viral mobile game from 2014, would be making a triumphant return: New game modes, updated levels, and...crypto?

An entity called "The Flappy Bird Foundation" plans to resurrect the beloved game this year. But as the media poked at this announcement, the plot thickens. The game had been abandoned the same year it was released, due to the immense pressure and scrutiny on its creator, Dong Nguyen. After the re-release announcement, Nguyen tweeted for the first time in 7 years that he has nothing to do with the game, never sold it, and doesn't support crypto.

So...who owns "Flappy Bird?" Who has the right to re-release it? And if IP is "abandoned," can anyone just start monetizing it?

Meanwhile, the PS5 Professional sure is expensive. Crying about game consoles on the Internet is nothing new, but we ask the honest question: Who is this upgraded hardware for? And what kind of prices will the market bear in an era of infinite choice?

Plus: Possible leaked images of the Nintendo Switch 2? And a tale of two very different "Baldur's Gate 3" experiences.

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172 I Can't Stop Thinking About "Baldur's Gate 3," Please Send Help

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 13 Sep 2024 16:35:07 +0000

Busy lives, work schedules, children, and sleep did not permit a co-operative recording this week, so Matt shares how starting "Baldur's Gate 3" last week with Colette's husband Patrick and friend-of-the show Sky Burkson has been a transformative experience.

We shall return with more BG3 shenanigans (and the week's news) next Friday!

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171 "Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom" Sure Does Look Like a Good Video Game

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 6 Sep 2024 18:23:15 +0000

After 8 years in development and two weeks of beta testing, Sony has pulled the plug on "Concord" after a shockingly low player count. The hero shooter failed to pull its target audience away from the 47 other live service games they're already playing, and Sony has de-listed it for sale and refunded those who have pre-purchased.

What does this say about the state of the games industry, and Sony's huge foray into the live service arena?

Plus: A Minecraft Movie trailer gets a mixed response from the Internet, and ConcernedApe hasn't touched "Haunted Chocolatier" for a while

Meanwhile, the preview embargo has lifted on "The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom," and boy-howdy, the new gameplay looks spectacular.

Colette's playing: Peglin

Matt's playing: Sins of a Solar Empire II, and Darkest Dungeon II

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170 Our Big Faves From Gamescom 2024 & Nintendo's Partner Direct

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000

The past week+ has seen an avalanche of announcements, teasers, demos, updates, DLCs, collab-os, and shadow drops. Why?? Gamescom 2024 and a surprise Direct from Miyamoto & Co.

We pluck out the most interesting and hype-filled tidbits, including some games you should download RIGHT MEOW.

Plus: What's up with the puppet museum in Atlanta?

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169 How Did the Video Game Industry Get So Brutal for Workers? (w/ Dr. Johanna Weststar)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 23 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Another day, another news story about studios laying off hundreds of video game developers. Why did this industry become so volatile? And what makes game devs so vulnerable to job insecurity, especially when the industry's profits have never been higher?

This week we're joined by Dr. Johanna Weststar, a professor of labor studies (and Stardew enthusiast!) at Western University in Ontario, Canada. She's the co-author of a new book, "Not all Fun and Games: Videogame Labour, Project-based Workplaces and the New Citizenship at Work," which dissects 15 years of employment data and trends to figure out why game development is so fraught, and how we can improve it.

There's so much more to the story besides "crunch." The explosion of temporary gig work, erosion of social safety nets, do-or-die publishing schedules, and struggles to unionize remote and disparate workers has lead to a reckoning in the games industry. But despite these challenges, we may be on the verge of a more secure work life for the people who make our favorite adventures — akin to the protections put in place for Hollywood when that industry was still young in the 1930s and 40s. What we do next, legally and culturally, will make all the difference.

Plus: How a blog from 2004 changed the Internet's perception of game dev, and your questions!

Find more of Johanna's work, publications, and how you can connect with her here: https://dan.uwo.ca/people/faculty/johanna_weststar.html

And her work with the International Game Developers Association (IGDA): https://igda.org/dss/

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168 Only 34 Players Have Seen This Secret "Baldur's Gate 3" Ending

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 16 Aug 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Larian Studios has shared player data on the 1-year anniversary of their smash hit "Baldur's Gate 3." Among the fascinating tidbits is that only 34 players have reached a VERY rare ending to the story that can only be unlocked through a specific sequence of events. What's more, there's an even SECRET-er ending that cannot be reached by normal means. But one YouTuber found a hack that unlocks the final events no one was meant to see.

Plus, we discuss why accomplishing things in games is sometimes more satisfying than accomplishing things IRL, why that can lead to feelings of guilt, and why giving your brain permission to rest is never time wasted.

Also: Sound sensitivity when it comes to game controllers, and why the MOBAPAD ChiTu Wireless Pro gamepad is Matt's new favorite piece of hardware.

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167 RIP "Game Informer," Dead at 33

Sat, 10 Aug 2024 18:25:09 +0000

After a 33 year run, the print magazine and website "Game Informer" has been abruptly shuttered by its parent company, GameStop. Fans and preservationists have been scrambling this week to preserve its decades of articles, but the fate of the digital content remains unknown. We discuss the importance of media preservation, and why it's so hard for companies to commit.

Plus: A Stardew-like with some refreshing mechanics, and what if the Ghibli classic "Kiki's Delivery Service" was a video game?

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166 Video Game Voice Actors Are On Strike

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 2 Aug 2024 12:38:24 +0000

Screen actors reached a deal with movie, TV, and streaming studios earlier this year after striking over pay, benefits, and AI. But what about voice acting in video games? Specifically when it comes to AI, they feel more vulnerable in the short term: Audiences have accepted stiff, robotic video game characters for decades.

In response to the looming threat, SAG-AFTRA has gone on strike against 10 major video game publishers (and their subsidiaries that focus on talent work). Time will tell if they walk away with a fair deal.

Plus: Colette has finished "Still Wakes the Deep," and has rave reviews. She's also addicted to the hope-stomping fruit-em-up "Suika Game."

Matt shares why "Nintendo World Championships" is getting MORE fun as the weeks go on, and his new obsession with Capcom's "Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess," which combines action, tactics, RPG elements, and stunning Japanese mythology.

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165 'Nintendo World Championships' Is Fun in Unexpected Ways

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 26 Jul 2024 07:00:00 +0000

"Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition" has arrived, bringing bite-sized speed run challenges from our favorite 8-bit '80s games. But more than just a nostalgia hit, this asynchronous online battle has some innovative delights, if you approach it with the right mindset. Matt shares impressions of his first week with the game.

Colette is finally out of her gaming funk and has gone hard on "Still Wakes the Deep," a nautical horror game that seriously delivers on vibes. Plus, her early impressions of the visually stunning action-RTS-tower-defense game "Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess," which is steeped in Japanese folklore. It hit Game Pass this week.

"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Splintered Fate" asks the question: What if "Hades" had couch co-op? Matt explains why the action roguelike (formerly exclusive to Apple Arcade) is an absolute JOY on Switch.

Plus: RIP Humble Games Publishing(?). The prolific publisher has laid off its entire staff under the management of Ziff Davis/IGN. It remains unclear if games like "Coral Island," "Slay the Spire," and "Unpacking" will still get marking support from this arm.

Also: Super Mario Dubstep!

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164 Who Is Emio? Nintendo's First M-Rated Game

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 19 Jul 2024 12:21:17 +0000

We're back in action to answer the question on everyone's mind LAST week: Who is Emio?

A mysterious trailer for a Nintendo-developed horror title set the game-o-verse abuzz. Turns out, the cryptic teaser is actually a sequel to a classic Japan-only Famicom game. Colette breaks down the details.

Also, a MASSIVE update to "No Man's Sky" just dropped, and Matt has returned to the galaxy to photograph new creatures and fancy water.

We discuss why we love being obsessed with a new game, and when going without that can be a challenge. Plus, the flow state of "Grapple Dog," and why the 2023 game "Sailing Era" is an impenetrable wall of poorly translated tutorials that Matt can't stop playing.

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163 'Zenless Zone Zero' Has Come for Your Wallet

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Mon, 8 Jul 2024 13:26:48 +0000

miHoYo released their 3rd(!) gatcha game in the West within four years, called "Zenless Zone Zero," which blends "Genshin" style combat with a "Persona" vibe. It got 50 million downloads within days of release, cementing the Chinese developer as an absolute unit.

So, is ZZZ actually good? Colette shares her early impressions of the PS5 version.

Plus: The Steam Summer sale hit our wish lists hard this year. We share what's in our carts, along with the games our listening community scored on the cheap.

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162 Stardew + Pokémon + Slay the Spire + Zelda = Moonstone Island

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 28 Jun 2024 07:00:00 +0000

This week is cut short by work and travel plans, but we have a BRIEF update on the games we're playing, including "Moonstone Island," a title that recently came to Switch. It blends cozy farm life and town romances with a Pokémon-style creature taming system, Wind Waker-esq exploration, and deck building battles.

So, is this indie life sim more than the sum of its heavily-inspired parts?

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161 You Can Finally Play as Zelda in Zelda (Nintendo's June Direct)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 21 Jun 2024 14:20:27 +0000

We really tried to play some hot new demos this week, but alas, Nintendo has graced us with a banger of a Direct.

We tackle each announcement and calibrate hype levels, along with your most anticipated games coming to the Switch (2?). Among them, the reveal of a new Mario & Luigi game, a top-down Legend of Zelda where you — get this — play as Zelda, and the first footage of Metroid Prime 4 ever.

Plus: We remember Colette's 17-year-old cat Ender, who passed away this week.

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160 Our Faves From the Xbox Showcase, Wholesome Games, & Summer Game Fest

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 14 Jun 2024 14:37:48 +0000

E3 may be gone, but video games INSIST on coming out! We are WHELMED with announcements, trailers, updates, teasers, and demos popping off from the Xbox Showcase, Wholesome Games Direct, Summer Game Fest, and more.

We can't cover them all, but we can each pick the 5 games that we're most excited about, and reveal them to you (and each other) one by one.

Also, baby's first D&D campaign! And weird sound effects!

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159 We Only Play Games That Start With the Letter "H"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 7 Jun 2024 14:29:47 +0000

For the foreseeable future, we will only be playing video games that are:

A) Sequels

B) Start with the letter "H"

We don't make the rules. That's just how it is.

For some reason, we talk about exercise for a while. Then, Colette shares her "Hades 2" update as she approaches the "final boss" (which is probably not the end of the game), and the latest patch notes which may smooth out the difficulty curve on this very challenging game. And Matt explains why "Helldivers 2" has officially eaten his life.

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158 Please Look at These Bangers From Sony's "State of Play"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 31 May 2024 13:43:39 +0000

Hey! Something good just happened in the American justice system! We take a moment to high five democracy, even when it feels hard to do so.

More importantly, Sony dropped a State of Play which we didn't even watch because LIFE. So we peep in real time at the list of announcements and trailers. There are definitely some goodies in there for PS5 and PC players.

Sony also shared their revenue and profits in a recent presentation, and somehow, the PS5 is their most profitable console generation ever? How is this possible when the PS4 outsold it, the PS2 is the best-selling console of all time, and games themselves cost more than ever to produce? We get in the weeds on some promising theories.

Articles discussed in this episode:

Kotaku: 7 Things We Just Learned About Sony’s Big PlayStation 5 Plans
The Verge: The biggest announcements from PlayStation’s summer State of Play

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157 Who Cares About Atari or Intellivision?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 24 May 2024 13:15:32 +0000

Colette's Internet pooped the bed right as we sat down to record this week, so Matt flies solo to wish a happy "Paper Mario" day to all who celebrate. Will you be binging the "Thousand Year Door" this week?

In the news, IGN Entertainment (owned by Ziff Davis) has acquired all your favorite video game publishers, including Rock Paper Shotgun, GamesIndustry.biz, and Eurogamer. Details are still emerging, but it's hard to imagine this won't suck for everyone involved, including readers of these important journalistic outlets.

Speaking of acquisitions, Atari has acquired Intellivision, which begs the obvious question: Who cares? And ... why? Interestingly, the merger does NOT include the upcoming and long-troubled Intellivision Amico console, which will need to be re-branded. Weird.

Meanwhile, Matt shares his new obsession with the indie survival craft-em-up "Space Trash Scavenger," where you suck up garbage from planetary orbit and recycle it into a kickass space base. Think: Loddlenaut + Hardspace: Shipbreaker, with a really innovative gravity/physics system.

Also cool: My obsession with framerates helped the game's dev squash an interesting physics bug!

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156 BEHOLD: Hades II, Little Kitty, and Animal Well Are Damn Good Video Games

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 17 May 2024 14:17:42 +0000

Video games are BACK, with three bangers released over the last week. "Hades II" officially entered Early Access after a brief tech test, and Colette has been screaming in her hotel room trying to get back home to play it. But is it more than just "more Hades?" She shares her first impressions. "Little Kitty, Big City" puts its paws on Game Pass, PC, and Switch, and despite a few annoying bugs, this adorable explore-em-up is a delightful romp for players of all skill levels.

Also: Stop whatever you're doing right now and play "Animal Well." The debut game from lone developer Billy Basso (Shared Memory), published by Bigmode (the new venture from Videogamedunkey) is an extraordinary Metroidvania brimming with vibes and secrets. Matt explains why this game combines the best elements of Fez + Rain World + Hollow Knight.

Plus: Colette is sick and can barely speak. Enjoy!

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155 "Another Crab's Treasure" Is Almost a Good Video Game! (Sky Burkson Returns!)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 10 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Colette is on assignment this week, so video game miniaturist and social media hurricane Sky Burkson returns to discuss his latest project for Summer Games Done Quick, Sony's idiotic blunder with their hit "Helldivers 2," the announcement of the "Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition," ACTUAL OFFICIAL CONFIRMATION that the Switch 2 exists, what we want from the June Direct, and why Capitalism is probably a bad idea!

Matt and Sky are also playing "Another Crab's Treasure" on PC, and we want to like it so much. But it might be trying to be too many things at once. We discuss why this beautiful, hilarious, and really fun game also wades into muddy mechanical waters.

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154 How Team 0% Beat All 800,000 Remaining "Mario Maker" Levels Before Nintendo Pulled the Plug

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 3 May 2024 07:00:00 +0000

Since 2017, a small collective of "Super Mario Maker" enthusiasts have been trying to complete every single player-created level — a quest to truly "beat" a game with hundreds of thousands of uncleared stages.

But when Nintendo announced that the servers for Wii U games would be taken offline in April 2024, the urgency reached new heights. Team 0% began to grow from its humble beginnings of about 500 members, to 15,000+ players, committed to identifying and clearing the remaining levels before they were lost to time.

Playing the levels was only half the battle. Finding and cataloging the unbeaten stages using Nintendo's arcane databases was no simple task. But through some clever reverse-engineering and lots of spreadsheets, they had whittled it down to a handful of levels with just days until oblivion.

What remained were some of the hardest, most obtuse Mario monstrosities ever created. And one level in particular could only be beaten by a robot — until...

This week, we talk with MagicMason1000, a long time member of Team 0% who now manages the community's YouTube and social media. Mason walks us through the fascinating history of this monumental undertaking, the Team's massive popularity boom amid global headlines, what happens when Nintendo patches glitches in Mario Maker, the exciting (and then somewhat anti-climactic) final victory for the team, and the mysterious fate of all those levels now that the servers are gone.

If you'd like to pitch in to beat every uncleared level of "Super Mario Maker 2," you can join the Team 0% Discord here: https://discord.gg/team0percent

Check out the Team's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@TeamZeroPercent

And watch henryst's The History of Mario Maker's Last 100 Levels video, as discussed in this episode: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wUqUUXDmk40

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153 Nintendo's April Indie World Was Short But Exciting

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 19 Apr 2024 13:01:23 +0000

A handful of third-party games were showcased on Nintendo's short-but-sweet Indie World on Wednesday, and on second glance, there are some bangers coming up (including multiple cat games!). We run down the full list, and share our impressions of new releases and demos.

Meanwhile, Colette bought a cheap ticket back to the post-apocalyptic glory of the original "Fallout," on the heels of the critically acclaimed TV show. And Matt gets his action roguelite fix with the indie shooter "Roboquest."

Also, what the HELL is the deal with "Princess Peach Showtime?"

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152 Our Wish Lists Just Tripled After the Triple-i Showcase

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 12 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

The Triple-i Initiative, a loose collective of successful indie development teams, ran a showcase on Wednesday full of announcements, sequels, updates, and DLC. We run down the games that caught our attention, joined our wish lists, or got a hard pass.

Also, some regulatory changes in the EU have big implications for the future of iOS, specifically around emulation. And our favorite game of 2023, Dredge, is getting a feature film! So, how the hell will they turn this atmospheric fishing sim into a cinematic story?

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151 Discord's New Ads May Not Be as Bad as We Thought

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 5 Apr 2024 07:00:00 +0000

After years of monetizing through premium features and publicly dismissing the prospect of ads, Discord will soon roll out its new "Sponsored Quests," as reported by The Wall Street Journal. But unlike algorithmic news feeds or mid-chat interruptions, these ads will be centered around video game discovery and Discord's livestreaming features. We discuss how — if done responsibly — this model could sidestep the "enshitification" that so many other platforms fall victim to.

Plus, STOP what you're doing right now and play this free game about being a filthy Pomeranian pup who messes up the house. Also, "Pepper Grinder" is a phenomenal 2D platformer, a return to "No Man's Sky," and a deep conversation about games, mental health, and social connection in a post-Covid world.

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150 How Many of These Video Game Trivia Questions Can You Get Right?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 29 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

A fascinating Polygon interview with Xbox honcho Phil Spencer kicks off a discussion about about why AAA games are SO expensive to make, and the pressure it puts on them to succeed across platforms. We break down how this relates to the indie space, and debate what players actually want from game experiences in 2024.

Plus, a surprise trivia challenge puts Colette and Matt's video game knowledge to the test. Play along at home, and let us know your score in the Discord!

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149 The "Stardew Valley" 1.6 Patch Notes Are Thicc AF

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 13:14:23 +0000

The long awaited 1.6 update for "Stardew Valley" has hit PC, and Colette wasted no time in diving back into her favorite cozy game. We discuss her experiences so far, and react to the absolutely HUGE amount of new content in the patch notes.

And if you need more farming in your life, "Lightyear Frontier" has just released into Early Access and Game Pass. Matt has been gorging on this peaceful new base building craft-em-up, where you drive (and customize!) a giant mech and restore nature with a big-ass hose.

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148 Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection Is Off to a Rocky Start

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 07:00:00 +0000

"Star Wars: Battlefront Classic Collection" contains the two original games fans have been salivating over for decades. They look great. They run great. So why does everyone hate them?

Plus, a group of "Mario Maker" enthusiasts are attempting to beat all 41,000 player-created levels in the entire game before Nintendo shuts down the Wii U servers in April. And they're already 99% there, with only the most dastardly levels remaining. Will they succeed?

Colette shares an update on her "Persona 3: Reloaded" progress, "Unicorn Overlord" is still awesome (cheesy dialogue aside), and we both gape in wonder at the indie dopamine factory known as "Bore Blasters."

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147 Nintendo Obliterates the Yuzu Switch Emulator in $2.4 Million Settlement

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 8 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

The Switch emulator Yuzu has been in development since 2018, allowing hobbyists to play Nintendo software on PCs and Steam Decks, often at higher resolutions and frame rates. But the trappings around Yuzu — including a Patreon that raked in $30,000 per month, and specific updates encouraging users to emulate "Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom" — have finally triggered the wrath of Nintendo's lawyers. This week's settlement of the lawsuit compels Yuzu's creator to terminate the project (along with 3DS emulator Citra), post a public apology, and pay Nintendo damages of $2.4 million. We discuss the ramifications of the settlement and the future of responsible community-driven emulation projects.

Plus, a mental health check in, some very special gems lingering from Steam Next Fest, seeing ConcernedApe (Eric Barone) in NYC, and why "Unicorn Overlord" might be the best tactics RPG ever made.

Colette's playing: "Minami Lane," "Spirit City: Lofi Sessions," and "Indika"
Matt's playing: "Unicorn Overlord"

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146 Everything Announced in Nintendo's February Partner Direct

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 24 Feb 2024 13:29:22 +0000

Colette is on assignment this week, so Matt flies solo to rundown Nintendo's February Partner Direct, which looks like a banger — depending on what kind of games you like.

New games, new footage reveals, Xbox exclusives crossing the divide, the return of some Rare classics, and a surprising amount of demos, including "Pepper Grinder" and "Unicorn Overlord." Also, Underwater games galore (!) and a big sad for "Earthbound/Mother" fans in the West.

Plus, what our Discord community is hyped for after watching.

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145 What "Persona 3 Reloaded" Gets Right

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 16 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Colette shares her early impressions of "Persona 3 Reloaded," the remake of the 2006 Atlus classic that updates and streamlines in all the best ways. Also, is Colette a min/maxer now???!

Plus, Matt launches a demo for the highly anticipated "Homeworld 3," but it's missing a key element. Also, a $2 game with bad reviews is actually...great?

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144 "Elden Ring," But On Your Telephone

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 9 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Reuters is reporting that Tencent and FromSoft have a mobile spinoff of "Elden Ring" well underway. So, how would a Genshin-style Souls-like actually work? We discuss the continued convergence of platforms and IP, and the future dominance of mobile for game devs.

Plus, Xbox influencers are crying about exclusives becoming cross-platform, and our "Silent Hill" correspondent Colette shares her impressions of "Short Message," the free game in the franchise that dropped at last week's State of Play.

Also, Steam Next Fest's demos are a'poppin. Colette shouts out three games she tried, including one very special experience.

Next Fest Demos:

Minami Lane: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2678990/Minami_Lane/
Kamaeru: A Frog Refuge: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1978150/Kamaeru_A_Frog_Refuge/
Kind Words 2: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2118120/Kind_Words_2_lofi_city_pop/

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143 All the Announcements From January's PlayStation State of Play

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 2 Feb 2024 14:02:19 +0000

Sony revealed a variety of 1st and 3rd party games, sequels, and DLC on its January 2024 State of Play livestream. We discuss the items that piqued our interest using our patent-pending scale of "How Many Fucks Given?"

Plus, the ever-expanding Kojima-verse, and why the "Silent Hill" franchise is returning in a big way, including a brand new free game you can play right now.

Also, Colette's first book, "Enter the Meta," is now available as an audiobook! We chat about the surprise voice actor reading it, and her latest endeavor to submit a second manuscript to a new agent.

Get the "Enter the Meta" audiobook here: https://www.audible.com/pd/Enter-the-Meta-Audiobook/B0CMYS1N69

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142 We Have to Talk About "Palworld"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 26 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

The only story in video games this week is the explosive debut of "Palworld," an open world survival craft-em-up where you also use magic balls to capture (and enslave) adorable creatures that look ... a LOT ... like other Pocket Monsters you may be familiar with.

Colette and Matt share their hands-on review of the oft-dubbed "Pokemon with Guns," and the experience of playing it online with our community! We discuss what makes the game SO addictive, the many reasons players feel drawn to the Early Access hit, and the controversy surrounding its first week in the wild.

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141 The Dumbest Video Game Lawsuit We've Seen in a While

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 19 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Colette is back to discuss the mind-blowing way a 13-year-old reached the "end" of NES "Tetris." On December 21, BlueScuti (aka Willis Gibson) became the first person to reach the breakneck mathematical end of "Tetris" for the NES, which causes the game to crash. While this made headlines around the gaming world, other "Tetris" pros quickly learned from Gibson's strategy, and one actually reached the "end" 21 seconds faster on January 3.

Plus, the GBA gem "Golden Sun" comes to Switch Online, the 10-year-old MOBA "Smite" sets itself up for a sequel (and why this is so interesting and complicated for a live service game), and the owners of Rockstar Games slap a trademark lawsuit on Remedy over their new logo design — even while they are working on games together! Only a court can decide who gets to own the letter "R"!

Also: Colette's "Genshin" Groove continues, while Matt searches for a co-op live service game to fill the holes in his shriveled heart.

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140 An In-Depth Discussion About the Ethics of AI-Generated Art (w/ Human Artist Sky Burkson)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 12 Jan 2024 21:30:02 +0000

Miniature artist and video game connoisseur Sky Burkson returns to the show to fill in for Colette. And while we set out to talk about some video game news, we veer into a wide-ranging and deeply philosophical discussion about the artistic process, and the ethics of AI art, which has reared its head in nearly every industry — including video games.

We discuss the very purpose of (capital "A") Art, and the scenarios in which AI tools could ethically be used (if at all), including a model of regulatory transparency that might satisfy concerned artists...if the tech is even possible, given AI's current "black box" approach. Media literacy, the future of the Internet, and humanity's very purpose hang in the balance.

But spoiler alert: We do solve everything and save the world by the end of this discussion.

Keep tab's on Sky's monumental video game art here:

https://www.instagram.com/skyburkson/

https://twitter.com/skyburkson

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139 More "Switch 2" Predictions, and Mickey Mouse Goes on a Killing Spree

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 5 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

We're back after a long and virus-infused holiday break to dive into the latest Switch 2 rumors which predict that...The Switch 2 will definitely happen! Also, what are Square Enix's "aggressive" plans to use AI in game design? And, the difference between using tech to eliminate drudgery vs. eliminating workers.

Plus: The first iteration of Mickey Mouse (as Steamboat Willie) has entered the public domain, and he's already popped up in a horror video game (thank you, Internet!). We discuss copyright, trademark, and the fascinating future of our favorite characters as they break free from their creators.

Also, "Dave the Diver," "Elden Ring," mobile convergence, and a great new idle game that runs right in your World Wide Web Browser.

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138 We Tried So Hard to Like Farming MMO "Palia"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Farming MMO "Palia" came out for Nintendo Switch after some time in the PC oven, and it has everything we want from this kind of game. So...why is it so bad?

Also, to the surprise of no one, "Dave the Diver" is GREAT! Plus: A huge data breach at Insomniac/Sony reveals interesting conversations about the future of the games business. We say BUH-BYE to one of the industry's most disliked CEOs, and we pay respects to "Max Payne" voice actor James McCaffrey, who sadly passed away this week.

Read Colette's coverage of the Insomniac hack here: https://www.thestreet.com/technology/sony-hack-discloses-confidential-data-plans-for-exclusive-projects

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137 Our Top 5 Games of the Year for 2023

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

🎵 It's the most wonderful time of the year 🎵 when we rank our absolute favorite video games of 2023. We reveal our 5 favorites to each other, and to you in real time! Get ready for a few surprises, and of course some obvious choices.

Plus: E3 is officially dead. We mourn the loss of the trade show institution, and discuss what has replaced it. Colette shares her memories of being on the ground at the show for three years, from 2007 to 2010.

We also discuss a few of the announcements and trailers that caught our attention at The Game Awards, and some items we're looking forward to in 2024 and beyond.

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136 Our Faves From the Wholesome Snack Showcase

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 8 Dec 2023 13:44:34 +0000

We woke up WAY too early to recap the Wholesome Snack showcase and pluck out the cozy, adorable, and beautiful games that caught our attention. Don't worry, they're not ALL farming sims.

From communal city builders to 2D-3D cats, we've got the scoop on all things Wholesome. Plus: Crabs with guns and a boomer (magic) shooter that respects its roots.

We'll be back next week with our reactions to The Game Awards.

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135 We Tried to Play a Video Game Together on the Internet

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 1 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

For possibly the first time ever, Colette and Matt attempted to play a video game together. It was a spectacular failure, but not for the reasons you'd suspect.

Plus: Would you want your OWN voice to be the protagonist in your next game? EA's new patent bets you will. We discuss the complications of AI voice synthesis in games and other media.

Also, the economics of Game Pass in a world of platform convergence, and the grind that keeps us coming back for more "Genshin Impact."

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134 Bring Your Nintendo DS to Thanksgiving

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 24 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

It's that time of year when we gather with family and friends, only to sneak away and grind out a few levels between the mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie.

We asked our listeners what they've queued up over the long Thanksgiving weekend, and discuss the legacy (and current second-hand market) of the Nintendo (3)DS.

Plus: What would it take to fork over $60 on the "Super Mario RPG" remake? Colette's continued obsession with "Genshin Impact," Matt rolls credits on "Tears of the Kingdom," more "Alan Wake 2," and continued voyages in "Elite: Dangerous."

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133 "Hades" Is Coming to (Certain) Telephones, and Our Fave November Nindies

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

"You can play 'Hades' on a telephone via Netflix" is a sentence we never thought we'd say, but it's happening. We continue to be fascinated by Netflix's innovative approach to game licensing, and the convergence of platforms (console, PC, mobile, and streaming) that make this all possible.

Plus, "Persona 6" is happening, Amazon lays off 180 in its gaming division, the Game Awards nominees are in, and the games that caught our eye in Nintendo's Indie World November showcase.

Also, will Colette's "Genshin" obsession last when the real grind kicks in? And Matt reviews the maximum chill underwater ocean cleanup game "Loddlenaut."

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132 Who Will Play Link in the Zelda Movie? And a New Steam Deck!?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

We fell asleep for a week and woke up to an unhinged amount of video game news, including the green light for a live action "Legend of Zelda" movie, "GTA 6" announced, a new "Mass Effect," more Switch 2 rumors, and the surprise launch of the Steam Deck OLED, which is actually more than a pretty screen.

Plus, the thing that finally got Colette hooked on "Genshin Impact," Matt's space cruise continues, "Alan Wake II," and an adorable game about cleaning up the ocean and petting fish.

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131 Our One Big Problem With "Super Mario Bros. Wonder"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 27 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

SMB Wonder is an extraordinary game, full of absolute joy and unbridled creativity...except for one REALLY annoying part.

Meanwhile, Colette looks back at the legacy of Alan Wake in preparation for the sequel, and some other spoopy games for the season. And Matt prepares to board a community-driven space cruise ship in Elite: Dangerous.

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130 "Super Mario Bros. Wonder" First Impressions

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 20 Oct 2023 18:24:44 +0000

Super Mario Bros. Wonder is in the wild, and we've played a few hours of it. We share what makes it charming, innovative and dare we say...FUN?

Also, somehow we end up talking about Howie Mandel for like 20 minutes.

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129 The Zelda Timeline Officially Makes Even Less Sense Now!

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 13 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

How much Halloween decorating is TOO much? The answer: It's never enough!

This week, Unity's CEO gets the boot, Activision/Blizzard games are (probably) enroute to Game Pass, "Guitar Hero" might be coming back(?), and the director of "Tears of the Kingdom" explains why the game's lore makes literally no sense.

Also, we take a peek at some Steam Next Fest Demos, share an extremely short but emotional game, and an objectively bad Switch port that's actually kinda awesome.

Colette's playing: Every Letter (Steam)

Matt's playing: Ziggurat 2 (Switch)

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128 "Dotage" Combines the Best Parts of "Rimworld" and "Civ"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 6 Oct 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Epic lays off 830 people and Jim Ryan is out at PlayStation, but in not-crappy news: Indie games are great!

This week, we crank up the hype meter even further for "Stardew" 1.6, ponder why anyone would buy a PS5 in 2023, and go further in depth on "Dotage," an apocalyptic village management sim that combines the best parts of "Rimworld" and "Civilization" without skimping on depth or meta progression.

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127 Meta Quest 3 vs. SteamVR 2.0: The VR Race (Finally) Heats Up

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The Meta Quest 3 VR headset has been revealed, boasting higher resolutions and more horsepower, but coincidentally (?) Valve has pushed SteamVR 2.0 into beta, which unifies PC, Steam Deck, and VR interfaces across its ecosystem. Does this hint at the long-rumored wireless Steam headset incoming? And if so, should Valve compete with Meta for mainstream users, or should it stick to the core gaming audience? And where would Apple fit into this market, if at all?

We discuss the race for VR adoption and what it means for the business of each company involved, and our own headset and ecosystem preferences. Plus, Colette has beef with "Fae Farm," and Matt is obsessed with the demo for the indie village builder/apocalypse simulator "Dotage."

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126 Microsoft's Leaked Gaming Roadmap, and 'Monster Hunter' Goes Mobile

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 22 Sep 2023 13:13:01 +0000

Leaked emails from the FTC investigation of Microsoft reveal some interesting plans for Xbox consoles, controllers, remastered games, the cost of making GamePass happen, and the possibility of acquiring...Nintendo? We put it all into context.

PLUS: Unity gets its comeuppance thanks to the solidarity of game devs, our trepidation around the end of "Sea of Stars," and the newest location-based game from Niantic is an impressive take on what makes "Monster Hunter" so fun.

Also, where are all the Noodle Games?

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125 Nintendo Direct Reactions and Ask Your Doctor If "Fae Farm" Is Right For You

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Sat, 16 Sep 2023 01:07:29 +0000

Nintendo's September Direct sure was dull...until it TOTALLY wasn't! We run down the list of instant-buys, maybes, and passes from the recent show.

Plus, early impressions of "F-Zero 99" and the things that set "Fae Farm" apart in a world of endless farming sims.

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124 This Adorable Bunny Game Scratches the Animal Crossing Itch

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 8 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Happy "Starfield" release week! We discuss all the reasons we probably won't play it, but it sure looks great for what it is! In the meantime, we are OBSESSED with "Usagi Shima," a solo-dev mobile game about running a tiny resort for adorable watercolor bunnies. We chat about what makes the "Neko Aastume-like" so special, and the passage of time in games.

Plus, belated reactions to the "Super Mario Bros. Wonder" Direct, the price of PlayStation Plus is going WAY up, and our ongoing thoughts about "Sea of Stars."

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123 Why "Sea of Stars" Is So Special

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 1 Sep 2023 07:00:00 +0000

We both share our early (and glowing) impressions of Sabotage Studio's stylish sophomore selection, "Sea of Stars!" (That's a lot of S's). We discuss the outstanding sprite work, music, prologue tutorial, why the demo did this game a disservice, and the mechanical depth that far exceeds its 16-bit inspirations.

Plus, walkable cities IRL, why Colette needs to return to TotK (someday), and an unexpected interruption...

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122 'Vampire Survivors' With Co-Op Is a Whole New Game

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 25 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The voice of Mario is changing after 30+ years, and legendary RPG studio BioWare gave its veteran writers the boot.

Fortunately, there's a new "No Man's Sky" update, and "Vampire Survivors" has co-op now!

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121 Things Take Time to Make (Sky Burkson Returns!)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Video game miniature artist and reluctant social media influencer Sky Burkson returns to share progress on his EPIC "Monster Hunter: World" papercraft set piece, and discuss how freecam boundary breaking is key to peering around video game corners players can't see. Also, we learn that capitalism is probably real bad!

While Colette is packing up for a move, Matt and Sky discuss LEGO penises, the meteoric rise of "Baldur's Gate 3," and why "Pikmin 4" is so damn fun.

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120 What's the DEAL With This Netflix Game Controller?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 11 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Netflix, the video store that mails you DVDs, just released an iOS app that turns your phone into a video game controller! How will this work? Where are the games? And most importantly, what KINDS of games will stream to your TV?

This week, we continue our discussion of Netflix's ongoing foray into games, and why their shrewd mobile strategy proves they're not constrained to their own platform.

Plus, "Baldur's Gate 3" continues to break Steam records and blow away the expectations of fans and its developers. We discuss why it's a perfect storm for this D&D revival. Also, Red Dead on Switch is happening?

Meanwhile, Colette raves about a super-spoopy pixel art adventure, and Matt heads to an incremental wizarding school with no graphics.

At the end of the day, it's all zeros and ones, baby.

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119 Is 'Baldur's Gate 3' Right For You? + A New Switch in 2024?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 4 Aug 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Happy "Baldur's Gate 3" release day to all who celebrate! We look back at this venerated franchise and why we're hesitant to sink into the latest 1.0, despite its rave reviews from fans and critics.

Plus, credible journalism hints at new Nintendo hardware coming in 2024. While the form factor will be similar to the Switch (duh), the biggest question remains: Will it be backwards compatible? We discuss the business case for and against this key feature.

Also, our latest obsessions from the Wholesome Games lineup, the legacy of Nintendo Cereal, a brutally great dungeon crawler, and a review of "Pikmin 4" from a surprise guest.

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118 'Gravity Circuit' Is a Great Game That I Don't Like

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 28 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Hey kids, don't follow your dreams. At least that's how we elderly gamers relate to our passions. This week we discuss what happens when you see the flaws in your favorite artform, and whether or not it matters to you. Plus, many Diablo players are not happy with Season 1 nerfs, and some crafty WoW players put one over on an AI news bot.

Plus, why "Gravity Circuit" is a fantastic "Meg Man" successor that's too hard to be fun, and the arrival of 2 often-overlooked Zelda games on Nintendo Switch Online!

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117 "Viewfinder's" Mind-Bending Physics and Demon Fisting in "D4"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 21 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Viewfinder is a surprise treat on Steam, but is it worth $25? Plus, Season 1 of Diablo IV kicks off with fresh characters and new lore to explore.

Also: Microsoft has overcome most of the regulatory scrutiny in its acquisition of Activision-Blizzard. But are governments asking the right questions when it comes to monopolistic control of the gaming market?

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116 Happy 20th Birthday, Second Life (w/ virtual worlds reporter Wagner James Au)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 14 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Before MySpace existed, there was already a thriving social network. But this one was fully in 3D. And you could fly!

Second Life turns 20 years old this summer, and it remains a vibrant ecosystem of players, creators, and a reminder of how a real "metaverse" should be built. Author and reporter Wagner James Au joins us to reflect on the enormous impact Second Life has had on games, and what we can learn from it as new "wannabe" metaverses spring up all the time.

Check out James' book: Making a Metaverse That Matters: https://www.amazon.com/Making-Metaverse-That-Matters-Fighting/dp/1394155816

And his blog: https://nwn.blogs.com/

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115 You Can Kill Chocobos in 'Final Fantasy XVI' and That's Wrong

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 7 Jul 2023 07:00:00 +0000

We're BACK with hot takes on FF16's epic combat and storyline, a factory game for people who hate factories, rolling credits on Diablo IV, and many pew-pew spaceship sounds! PLUS, what our beloved community is playing in the wake of a TotK-filled month.

Colette's playing: Final Fantasy XVI and Diablo IV

Matt's playing: Nova Lands and EVERSPACE 2

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114 brb, afk vol. 6

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 30 Jun 2023 19:52:36 +0000

We're excited to talk about FF16 and more, but we're skipping this week's pod due to LIFE. In the meantime, Matt checks in to see how things are going.

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113 Super Mario: U N H I N G E D (Nintendo Direct Reactions)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 23 Jun 2023 12:25:31 +0000

Join us as we lose our minds over all the games announced at Nintendo's June Direct, including Super Mario's exciting new experiments with LSD!

Also, Pick-Men, Mario RPG is back, and the insanity of 4-player co-op Vampire Survivors.

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112 Our Favorite Reveals From Summer Games Fest, Xbox, Wholesome & More

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 16 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

GAMES! They are coming out! We've plucked the most interesting titles from Summer Games Fest, the Xbox Showcase, Wholesome Direct, and Devolver Direct.

What are you most looking forward to? Get at us below with your picks:

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111 The $3,500 Apple Vision Pro Isn't For Games (Yet)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 9 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

We are floored and confused by the reveal of Apple's long-rumored augmented reality headset. If you like opening and closing 100-foot Safari tabs in your livingroom, then this puppy will only set you back $3,500. If you're waiting for something more, this ep is for you.

We discuss the exciting potential of granular eye tracking, gesture control, and why the VR/AR market continues to be fractured between gamer enthusiasts and normals.

Plus, Colette blows past the early level caps in Diablo IV, Matt gets out his spreadsheets for another mobile MMO, and we try not to talk about Zelda for 10 minutes.

Colette's playing: Diablo IV
Matt's playing: Albion Online

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110 Who Needs Sony's Project Q? Our PlayStation Showcase Reactions

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 2 Jun 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Sony's Playstation Showcase revealed some exciting new IP and franchise faves from a variety of studios. Which ones caught our eyes and ears? And what's up with this new Playstation handheld?

Plus, is TotK ruining all other video games for us? And an exciting new endeavor in Colette's household!

A Guide to Royal Thai Cuisine: https://guide.michelin.com/th/en/article/features/a-guide-to-royal-thai-cuisine

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109 Dopamine Forest: The Real Reason 'Tears of the Kingdom' Is So Rewarding

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 26 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Our obsession with Tears of the Kingdom continues as we discuss what makes it so engaging, and how it masterfully avoids the pitfalls of "aimless" open world game design. We also address some of the criticism around its re-hashing of BoTW, and why that ultimately works in its favor in strange ways.

Also, what's the best way to watch (and understand?) Evangelion?

[This episode contains NO SPOILERS for TotK, despite our original plans! Listen without fear!]

Colette's playing: TotK, Ghostlore, and Princess Maker
Matt's playing: ALL TOTK ALL THE TIME

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108 AI Will Be Amazing For Video Games, Rough on Society

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 19 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

Colette is BACK, and her jaw remains on the floor after diving into Tears of the Kingdom. She shares her first impressions and we get serious about what makes the latest Zelda game so great.

Plus, Steam's new "try it before you buy it" feature and the promising future of Large Language Models (like ChatGPT) in video games.

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

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107 TEARS OF THE KINGDOM First Impressions With @JammyCooks

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 12 May 2023 17:23:25 +0000

[SPOILER-FREE DISCUSSION UNTIL 50:10]

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom has finally arrived, and we've been playing since it dropped last night. Colette is on assignment, so fellow Zelda fanatic Jaime Carrillo joins Matt to discuss the first 3-4 hours of what may go down in history as one of the greatest video games ever made.

Jaime has loved Zelda since he was a (literal) fetus, and shares the fresh and familiar mechanics that make ToTK so remarkable. He also shares the inspiration for his YouTube channel, in which he cooks recipes from video games in real life, including BoTW, Pokemon, and Paper Mario.

Subscribe & Follow Jaime:

https://www.youtube.com/@jammycooks

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106 What Are You Playing While We Wait for "Tears of the Kingdom?"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 5 May 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom is ONE WEEK AWAY. Is your body ready? What are you doing, playing, or not playing to clear your mind and calendar for May 12? Matt flies solo for this one to discuss your pre-TotK plans while Colette is on vacation.

Matt's playing: Grounded

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105 UK Blocks the Microsoft/Activision Merger. Now What?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 28 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The United Kingdom has blocked Microsoft from acquiring Activision Blizzard in a major regulatory swing, citing unfair competition in the cloud gaming market. Microsoft will appeal of course, but what actually happens if one country blocks a multi-national merger?

We discuss the differences between what we (as gamers) want to happen, vs. what should happen. Also, the jaw-dropping photorealism of Unrecord, and our favorite gems from Nintendo's April Indie World Showcase. Spoiler: It was different in Japan.

Colette's playing: Citizen Sleeper and V Rising

Matt's playing: JellyCar Worlds and Pocket City 2

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104 What Would a Netflix AAA Live Service Game Look Like?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 21 Apr 2023 04:00:00 +0000

When Netflix first entered the games biz, many in the industry scoffed. But their partnership strategies and platform-agnostic mobile approach has shown promise. Now the news of a former Halo developer joining Netflix to create a new AAA IP has us thinking: A cross-platform, live service game on PC and consoles that's "free" to play with a Netflix login could be a massive hit — if the game is great.

We discuss the shifting live service landscape, our excitement for Stardew Valley 1.6, Sega buying Angry Birbs for mere pennies, and why we must protect Eric Barone (ConcernedApe) at all costs.

Colette's playing: Sun Haven
Matt's playing: Minecraft Dungeons

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103 The Weird-Ass Video Games We Rented From Blockbuster

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 14 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

We all remember the video games near and dear to our nostalgic hearts. But what about the ephemeral, random boxes we picked up at the local video store when we had nothing else to play? If music and screenshots of these weird games bring back a flood of memories, you're in good company.

We recount the strangest and most interesting '90s games forgotten by time, why the industry moved away from weird games, and our gratitude for the current golden age of weirdness.

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102 We Can't Stop Thinking and Talking About DREDGE

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 7 Apr 2023 07:00:00 +0000

The DREDGE demo caught our eye a few months back, and the full release has got its hooks (lol) in us in a serious way. We discuss how elegant, mysterious, and mechanically perfect this special game is, and why it hits all the right notes for two players with different tastes.

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101 Zelda: TotK's Weapon Durability Is the Most Polarizing Issue of Our Time (Sky Burkson Returns!)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 31 Mar 2023 20:18:50 +0000

It's time to discuss the controversy that has divided our great nation for far too long: Should Link's stick break after you whack it too much?

On the heels of fresh gameplay for The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, miniature artist and Pro Gamer Dad™ Sky Burkson returns to Chat about how Nintendo has leaned hard into the physics sandbox of its open-world sequel, and whether that's what fans really want from a Zelda game.

Plus, we discuss Sky's latest epic Elden Ring paper sculpture, why AI-generated art can't compete with true fandom (yet), and how Netflix's quasi-platform gaming strategy might be paying off.

Sky's playing: The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap and Metroid Fusion (NSO)
Matt's playing: Terra Nil (Android/Netflix)

Follow Sky Burkson's miniature work: https://www.instagram.com/skyburkson/

Artists referenced in this episode:

kevins_computer: https://www.instagram.com/kevins_computer/
Party In The Front (Luis Melo): https://www.luismelo.net/

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100 How 'Minesweeper' Made Microsoft a Gaming Company (w/ Kyle Orland)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 24 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

When "Minesweeper" and "Solitaire" were first bundled with Microsoft's Windows operating system in the early '90s, they introduced millions of people to PC gaming, many of whom had never used a mouse before. "Minesweeper" in particular became a favorite addiction of many Microsoft programmers, including Bill Gates.

Kyle Orland, senior gaming editor at Ars Technica, has written an upcoming book about the legacy of the grey, tiled Roguelike that paved the way for a more robust ecosystem of PC games and eventually the Xbox brand we know today. The ubiquity of these casual pack-in games rivaled the scale of current "Candy Crush" obsessions, and also caused moral panic among business and political leaders, who decried office workers frittering away their productivity on addictive games.

Kyle dives into the curious exploits that competitive Minesweepers discovered when they were finally connected to the Internet, and how Microsoft missed its chance for "Solitaire" to become the "Fortnite" of the Windows Store. He also shares stories from his early days curating a Super Mario Bros. fan site when he was 15, interviewing Shigeru Miyamoto, and why "Bubble Bobble" desperately needs a 3D reboot.

Plus, we absolve Colette's guilt about giving Blizzard money for the "Diablo IV" beta and why a new Tactics + Roguelite + RPG + Tower Defense + Diabloish game has got its hooks in Matt.

Pre-order Kyle's book "Minesweeper" from Boss Fight Books: https://bossfightbooks.com/products/minesweeper-by-kyle-orland

Or on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Minesweeper-31-Boss-Fight-Books/dp/B0BRSKKLGV/

Kyle's playing: Bubble Bobble (Arcade Archives)
Colette's playing: Diablo IV Beta
Matt's playing: Salt & Sanctuary and The Last Spell

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99 We Convinced World-Record Video Game Collector Linda Guillory to Get a Steam Deck

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 17 Mar 2023 07:00:00 +0000

By day, Linda Guillory is an engineer at Texas Instruments. By night (and really, all hours!), she holds two Guinness World Records: "Largest collection of LCD video game systems," and "largest collection of playable gaming systems." In all, she has more than 3,000 and counting, and her collection has been covered by games media and collector trades around the world.

Linda joins us for a really fun and fascinating Chat about how she got started, the huge role her family plays in her love of gaming, an exclusive announcement, and why we often forget about video games that existed before cartridges. Linda also shares the "White Whale" system that has slipped through her fingers more than once, and what it's like being a Black woman in a retro scene traditionally dominated by men.

We also try to convince Linda, who literally owns thousands of handheld game systems, to get a Steam Deck, because REASONS. And bonus points if you remember the Commodore 64 game "Lemonade Stand."

To check out Linda's collection, subscribe to her on YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@lindaguillory7802

And follow Linda on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/watsonguillory/

Linda's playing: Game & Clock (not Game & Watch!)
Colette's playing: Travellers Rest
Matt's playing: Salt & Sanctuary and Whisker Squadron (Demo)

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98 Can Video Games Teach You a Foreign Language?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 3 Mar 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Living in a foreign country is often cited as the best way to learn a new language. While we can't always do that, what if we could live there...virtually? We chat about some upcoming wholesome games, including one that drops you in Tokyo for an immersive language experience.

Plus, the continued joys of Kirby, returning to "Eastward," and our early impressions of the highly anticipated "Sea of Stars."

Games we're looking out for:

Shashingo: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/autumnpioneer/shashingo-a-photography-game-for-learning-japanese
Innchanted: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1369720/Innchanted/
Melon Journey: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1074030/Melon_Journey_Bittersweet_Memories/
Deep Rock Galactic: Survivor: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2321470/Deep_Rock_Galactic_Survivor/

Games we're playing:

Eastward (Gamepass)
Kirby's Return to Dreamland Deluxe (Switch)
Production Chain Tycoon (Android)
Finding Hannah (iOS)

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97 Nintendo Direct...ly Into Our Hearts

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 17 Feb 2023 08:00:00 +0000

We recap the big announcements, fresh demos, and interesting teasers that caught our attention during Nintendo's massive February Direct, including the shadow drop of Metroid Prime Remastered and brand new footage of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. We also dive into some of the Game Boy Advance classics offered in the new online upgrade, and share excitement for the upcoming Chrono-inspired RPG Sea of Stars.

Plus, more space zombie stomping in the Dead Space remake and a harrowing tale of ambush and redemption on the Sea of Thieves.

Colette's playing: Dead Space (Remake) & The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap

Matt's playing: Metroid Prime Remastered & Sea of Thieves

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96 Activision Blizzard's Paltry Settlement & Complicated Hogwarts Feelings

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 10 Feb 2023 08:00:00 +0000

** THIS EPISODE WAS RECORDED BEFORE NINTENDO'S LATEST ANNOUNCEMENTS **

The news was easy to miss: Activision Blizzard has settled with the SEC for $35 million, and admitted to no wrongdoing in its sexual discrimination and harassment lawsuits. So, is this the end of the story? Will anything change at the company or in the gaming industry as a whole? We discuss our disappointments and optimism.

Also, Hogwarts Legacy has garnered rave reviews from nearly every major outlet, confirming that this is the Wizarding game fans have anticipated for decades. But it's not without controversy, of course. We discuss our complicated feelings around the game in a larger cultural context.

Plus: Someone made the entire Legend of Zelda map in Minecraft and it is stupidly amazing.

Colette's playing: Gourdlets and Deadspace (Remake)

Matt's playing: Hero of Aethric & Desta

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95 The Sleeper Hit 'Hi-Fi Rush' Is a Rush

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 3 Feb 2023 13:58:56 +0000

The action-adventure rhythm game Hi-Fi Rush from Tango Gameworks shadow dropped this week, and has taken the game-o-sphere by storm. Colette shares her glowing first impressions of this very special title. Meanwhile, Matt has embarked on his new PowerWash Simulator career in the flawed but still very satisfying Switch port.

Also: The Dead Space remake delivers in a world where other spiritual successors fall short.

Colette's playing: Hi-Fi Rush and Dead Space (Remake)

Matt's playing: PowerWash Simulator (Switch)

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94 The Rise of "Cozy City Builders"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 27 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

We've noticed an increasing number of chill, minimalist "building" games emerge over the last few years, from Dorfromantik to Garden Galaxy, so we thought it was time to explore the rise of these "cozy builders."

We trace their lineage back to the city games of yore, why they've split into a new subgenre, the difference between a "toy" and a "game," and the pure creative dopamine hits you get when setting up the perfect farm/island/city.

Colette's playing: Moonstone Island
Matt's playing: Islanders

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93 'The Last of Us' TV Show Is ... Actually Great?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 20 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

This week we discuss the premiere of HBO's The Last of Us TV series, and how the maturation of video game narrative over the last 40 years (as well as the craft of prestige TV adaptation) has brought us to this moment.

Also, Colette's book Enter the Meta is OFFICIALLY released. Get it wherever you get books! https://amzn.to/3HbAaox

Plus, the sheer joy of wanton kaiju destruction and the legacy of the arcade classic Rampage.

Colette & Matt are playing: Terror of Hemasaurus

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92 'Stardew Valley' Speedrunners (w/ atwentysomethingloser & lichatton)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 13 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Speed running Super Mario Bros. is a straightforward endeavor. Whoever saves the princess fastest gets the record. But what about open-ended sims, where you set your own goals?

This week, we were so mesmerized by Stardew Valley speedrunners on GDQ that we had to invite them on the show. Lee (@atwentysomethingloser) and Lisa (@lichatton) are Stardew-obsessed Twitch streamers who have dissected the game to find the fastest ways to marry specific villagers, complete Community Center bundles, catch every fish, and other in-game milestones, often achieving these runs in mere hours.

Their strategies involve animation canceling, min/maxing gifts, and a lot of sleep! Lee and Lisa share how they got into the wild world of speeding through one of the chillest games of all time, how it has increased their love for it, and share what else they play after thousands of hours of Stardew.

Follow and subscribe to Lee and Lisa!

https://www.twitch.tv/atwentysomethingloser

https://www.twitch.tv/lichatton

Lee's playing: Pokémon Scarlett & Violet
Lisa's playing: Lemon Cake & Don't Starve
Colette's playing: Core Keeper & Strange Horticulture
Matt's playing: Hero of Aethric

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91 Our Game(s) of the Year for 2022

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 6 Jan 2023 08:00:00 +0000

It's time to look back on a year of play and discuss the games that brought us the most joy in 2022, and then yell about them! Which titles will take the crown as The Chat's Games of the Year? Only one way to find out.

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90 Playing Old PS2 Games Over the Winter Break

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

We're staying as cozy as possible and carving out some post-holiday game time with some old classics and new favorites. We discuss what you've been playing, and the games at the top of our queue during this (hopefully) quiet time.

Colette's playing: Old-ass PS2 games like Fatal Frame
Matt's playing: Sail Forth and Sky: Children of the Light

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89 Fortnite Pays an Epic $520 Million Price on Privacy

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 23 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Epic Games settled an FTC investigation alleging it had violated the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) by collecting too much data on minors and tricking them into unintended purchases. Epic has not admitted to wrongdoing, but will pay a whopping $520 million to put the case to bed. So, what does this mean for the future of a games industry that has its sights set on live service games, addictive loops, and microtransactions?

We discuss this, what we've been playing, and much more.

Read Colette's piece on Epic vs. FTC: https://www.thestreet.com/video-games/why-epic-games-clash-with-the-ftc-wont-be-the-last

Do games have an extremism problem, and if so, who's responsible? https://www.gamedeveloper.com/business/congress-calls-publishers-to-address-extremism-in-video-games

Colette's playing: Core Keeper
Matt's playing: The Playdate console!

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88 Our Favorite Reveals & Surprises From The Game Awards

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

'Tis the season for video game announcements, trailers, and shadow drops, and nobody brought the heat like Geoff Keighley and The Game Awards. Even if you don't care about the awards themselves, you can't deny the news that broke during the show.

We take a look back at the trailers that piqued our interest, and the reveals our community is most looking forward to.

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87 "Callisto Protocol" Has Bad Reviews and "Dwarf Fortress" Reborn

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 9 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

The long-awaited space horror spiritual successor to Dead Space is... bad? Editorial and fan reviews alike have criticized the new release for performance issues and lackluster gameplay. But how much envelope pushing does a franchise really need if fans just want moar Dead Space in their lives?

Plus, the 20-year-old free colony simulator Dwarf Fortress finally has...graphics? The game is out now on Steam for the first time ever, and it's a watershed moment for the genre it more or less created. Plus, more media theory, drama around a canceled Smash Bros. tournament, and Colette's demo-palooza continues.

Colette's playing: Luto
Matt's playing: Siralim Ultimate

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86 Gardens, Graveyards, and How to Fix the Internet

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 2 Dec 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Colette has a delightful new Steam demo to share, and Matt would like to talk to you about our Lord and Savior: Tech Trees. Plus, what YOU are playing on this fine post-Thanksgiving week.

We also discuss the problems with modern social media and how we might make the Internet a better place for communities and fandoms.

Colette's playing: Garden Galaxy (Demo)
Matt's playing: Graveyard Keeper

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85 Pokémania and the Weirdest Pet Sim Ever

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

We dive into the Pokémon Scarlet and Violet hype (with help from our community), and explore the fine line between franchise innovation and video game comfort food.

We also catch up on the Early Access roadblocks of Coral Island, what's the deal with A Little to the Left, and the polygonal pet sim hellscape that is: Wobbledogs.

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84 What If "Wordle" Had a Battle Pass? (w Jeff Petriello, NY Times Games)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 18 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

The New York Times has been a gaming company for decades, yet most crossword and puzzle fans don't consider themselves "gamers." This conversation shifted a bit when the Times purchased Internet sensation Wordle in January.

Jeff Petriello is a producer at NY Times Games, a digital media vet, and game design professor at New York University. He joins us to discuss how bundling games into subscription services like NYT, Netflix, and Gamepass are changing the perceptions and study of play. He also shares how he guides game design students without hindering their self-expression, why controller input standardization is awesome but creatively limiting, and his current obsession with tabletop monstrosity Gloomhaven.

Follow Jeff to keep up with his work: https://www.thebeff.com/

Jeff's playing: Gloomhaven (tabletop)
Colette's playing: The Chant & more Coral Island
Matt's playing: Tactics Ogre: Reborn

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83 Our Favorite November Nindies

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 11 Nov 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Nintendo shared a wholesome lineup of fresh indie games this week, so we pluck out our most anticipated, along with some recently released games we're jazzed to try.

Colette's playing: Coral Island
Matt's playing: Rogue Legacy 2

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82 Spaghetti Factory

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 4 Nov 2022 15:04:06 +0000

This week's episode is mostly about Target's home décor section, but we also squeeze in some discussion about ... video games!

We cover what you've been playing, the fine line between goals and grind, and the sublime joys of automation.

Colette's playing: Potion Permit & Coral Island
Matt's playing: Factorio on Switch

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81 Do Video Games Make Kids Smarter?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 28 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The new Final Fantasy XVI trailer looks real pretty, but is it enough to get you excited about the next installment? We discuss the franchise's hits and misses, and where 16 might fit in the hallowed pantheon.

Plus, a new study from the National Institute of Health finds that kids who game have more brain poppin'. We discuss whether that's causation or correlation, and why studies on video games are murky at best. Also, G4 TV is finally dead (again?) and we look back on where it missed the boat for mainstream video game coverage, and that time Colette was on TV!

We also share our Spoopy Game picks for all ages if you're looking for a fright this Halloween!

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80 Konami Took a Break From Pachinko Machines!!!

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 21 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Silent Hill MANIA has befallen us, and Colette brings everyone up to speed on what was announced this week, the fandom's reaction, and why it matters.

We also discuss Colette's forthcoming YA novel, Enter the Meta, which is now available for pre-order! Use the links below to purchase. And the merits of a pocket space MMO for the rest of us.

Colette's playing: HYPE ABOUT SILENT HILL
Matt's playing: Homeworld Mobile

Pre-order Colette's book, Enter the Meta:

Simon & Schuster: https://bit.ly/3z13d9T
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3yY5naj
Barnes & Noble:https://bit.ly/3SkfI7k

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79 Who Is Meta's Latest VR Headset For?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 14 Oct 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The Meta Quest Pro VR headset is here. It's lighter, and has more precise hand tracking, but a lower resolution, refresh rate, and battery life, and it's being marketed to creative professionals at a whopping $1,500. So who is this for? And will it move the needle on VR?

We discuss the fractured VR audience, and why the Pro's specs and price tag may not line up for VR's biggest evangelists. Plus, Facebook's major trust problem, and why Valve is uniquely positioned to save us all from VR ecosystem hell, especially with lessons learned from the Steam Deck's success.

Colette's playing: Potion Permit and Moving Out
Matt's playing: For the King

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78 LIVE Reactions to the Super Mario Bros. Movie Trailer

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 7 Oct 2022 16:48:04 +0000

We URGENTLY react to the world premiere footage from the Super Mario Bros. animated movie, and discuss the commercial and cultural stakes for Nintendo as they approach next year's release.

Also, what makes fishing and crafting good in certain games, while tedious in others? We also stand before the deluge of demos from Steam Next Fest, and share our picks and potentials.

Colette's playing: Dredge (Demo) and Potion Permit (Demo)
Matt's playing: 20 Minutes Till Dawn and Halo: Reach

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77 RIP Google Stadia: We Hardly Knew Ye

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 30 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

We lament the demise of cloud gaming service Google Stadia, and speculate on what it might portend for the future of game streaming. Plus, we cover what our community has been playing, and gape in awe at a music licensing miracle.

Colette's playing: 20 Minutes Till Dawn & Metal Hellsinger
Matt's playing: Mythic

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76 Disney Did an Animal Cross

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 23 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

This week we discuss what it takes to re-wire your home for a grown-up PC gaming lifestyle, the massive leaks of GTA VI and Diablo IV, and the strange machinations of Disney's $30 Early Access game that will one day be free to play?

We also shine a spotlight on an up-and-coming indie developer called "Nintendo."

Colette's playing: Disney Dreamlight Valley
Matt's playing: Splatoon 3

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75 Attack of the Video Game News

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 17:28:04 +0000

This week has more game news than you can swing a dead cat at, so we run down the highlights from Nintendo's September Direct, Sony's State of Play, and peek across the ocean at what's poppin' at the Tokyo Game Show.

Plus, the infinite charm of Cursed to Golf, the winners of our Discord giveaway, the near-future of the VR market, and why doesn't Disney make more AAA console games these days?

Colette & Matt are playing: Cursed to Golf

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74 Boomers Talk About Fortnite

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 9 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Have you heard of Fortnite? It is a popular video game that is sweeping the nation. Matt shares his thoughts about diving in for the first time ever, while Colette wraps up her Vampire Survivors obsession to focus on ... golf? Also, what's up with the Thai entertainment industry? (A question that no one has ever asked until this moment.)

We cover Free-to-Play FOMO, and should Queen Elizabeth II (RIP) become a leader in Civilization?

We have 3 Steam keys for Cursed to Golf, courtesy of Chuhai Labs! If you'd like to win one, enter the Discord server below and react to the post in the podcast channel! We will randomly draw the winners on next week's episode!

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73 Maybe Animal Crossing Was a Pandemic MMO for Muggles

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 2 Sep 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Would you take your Steam Deck on a cruise ship? Your answer to this question is better than any horoscope.

Also, Sony's investment in mobile MMOs and live service games leads us to a conversation about how platforms and ecosystems are so important in bringing "Muggles" (i.e. non-traditional gamers) into games — specifically, how the persistent worlds of our own Animal Crossing islands kinda became a social MMO that 30 million people played throughout the pandemic. The future of live service has a lot to do with what devices and platforms are in our pockets.

Colette's playing: Survivor.io and PlateUP!
Matt's playing: Astro Duel Deluxe and Tunic

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72 Gamescom Rom-Com 2022

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

We run down the teasers, announcements, updates, and surprises from Gamescom 2022, conduct our court-mandated Vampire Survivors check-in, and share some fresh gems we've been playing.

Also, the lessons of being a "fast follower" in the games and tech industries.

Colette's playing: PlateUp! and Onsen Master
Matt's playing: Empires of the Undergrowth

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71 Killing Much Harder

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The depth and complexity of a game has nothing do with with its control scheme, graphical fidelity, or writing, as our continued obsession with Vampire Survivors proves. We spin the wheel and pick the 5 winners of our Vampire Survivors giveaway! Listen here or check the Discord to see if you've won!

Also, the beauty of ASCII animation, how online communities allow games to indulge in mechanical complexity, and...Rock Simulator?

Colette's playing: MOAR Vampire Survivors
Matt's playing: Stone Story RPG

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70 We Can't Stop Playing 'Vampire Survivors' Send Help

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 12 Aug 2022 21:47:10 +0000

Vampire Survivors, the indie darling that's sweeping the nation, only uses one stick. But its strategic complexity is a miles-deep "just one more run" rabbit hole, and Colette may never climb out.

Speaking of hopeless addictions, Matt has returned to Sea of Thieves for its Season 7 Captaincy Update, and is also checking out Monster Sanctuary, which is a Poké-like Metroidvania with Final Fantasy-esque combat. Phew!

Also, the incomprehensible size of Tencent and its continued domination of the industy.

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69 Jhong Bucks

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 5 Aug 2022 07:00:00 +0000

The world NEEDS a cross-platform, free-to-play, ranked, competitive mahjong game with unlockable cosmetics that make rainbows shoot out of your tiles...and WE will be the ones to make it.

We also discuss the joys of late comedic actor Meshach Taylor (of Mannequin and Designing Women fame) and eventually get around to discussing actual video games, which include whether 13 Sentinels is an Evangelion-like, and the strange technical whiplash of Final Fantasy VII Remake's PC port.

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68 Straaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaay

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 29 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Is Stray, the most-wishlisted game in Steam history, living up to the hype? Colette shares her first impressions on both the Steam Deck and her PC. Also, Matt finally finished 13 Sentinels: Aegis Rim, and there is a LOT (of non-spoilers) to talk about!

Also: Does a "game" need mechanics to be ... well, a game?

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C&M Present: Nice Games Club!

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 22 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

We are offline this week for overlapping vacations but in the meantime, we wanted to introduce you to another fantastic podcast in the HyperX family called Nice Games Club, where three game devs talk about the industry!

We're excited to have Ellen Burns-Johnson, Mark LaCroix, and Stephen McGregor on the show for a roundtable discussion, but in the meantime, we're sharing episode 249 of their show from February which discusses how "free" games (like those given away on Epic and bundled with GamePass) are affecting the industry.

On its face, this is a fantastic value for players and a great safeguard for developers against the volatility of the market. But longterm, does this model "devalue" the work of game devs and the cultural impact of a given game?

We hope you enjoy this episode and we'll be back next week with more Chat!

Check out this episode of Nice Games Club on their feed: https://nicegames.club/episode/249

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67 Even More Hidden Gems (w/ Sky Burkson)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 15 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

You asked for it, and we have delivered. Volume 2 of our hidden gems series is here. And while Colette is on vacation this week, guest co-host Sky Burkson has a treasure trove of under-the-radar beauties like ... Elden Ring, and ... Mario Kart 8.

Games discussed in this episode:

Follow Sky to see what video game miniature madness he's been up to:

Sky's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skyburkson/
Sky's Twitter: https://twitter.com/skyburkson

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66 Hidden Gems For Your Never-Ending Wishlist

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 8 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

If you're in the mood for a game that's off the beaten path, we have a treasure trove of hidden gems from our community and our personal list of favorites. From tear-jerkers to potion crafting to dancing poop emojis, this episode has it all.

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65 Real-Time Strategy Returns (w/ Ryan Schutter, Frost Giant Studios / Stormgate)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 1 Jul 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Like many of us in the late '90s and early '00s, Ryan Schutter was obsessed with real-time strategy games like Warcraft, Command & Conquer, and StarCraft. When StarCraft II was on the horizon, he bought a beta key from Craigslist, and his life would never be the same again.

He made custom maps for the game, including complex event scripting. As game streaming matured and SC2 became a competitive scene, he devised a fresh UX called Gameheart that allowed spectators and eSports fans to see wtf was even going on during high-level competitive play. That's when Blizzard took notice, and hired him to bake his Gameheart mod into the official product.

Today, Ryan is the lead UX designer at Frost Giant Studios, a dev with many former Blizzard RTS vets. They're building a fresh RTS called Stormgate, and it will be a free-to-play social experience that aims to marry our long-lost love of unit management with modern live service games.

We chat with Ryan about his journey in the games biz, where RTS fits into the modern gaming landscape, and why the community is crucial in building Stormgate from the ground up.

Ryan's playing: Surviving Mars
Colette's playing: V Rising
Matt's playing: No Man's Sky

Wishlist on Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/2012510/Stormgate/

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64 Teenage Mutant Ninja Steam Deck

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 24 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Colette got a STEAM DECK! She shares her first impressions and what she's been playing on it. We also discuss the beat-em-up joy of TMNT: Shredder's Revenge.

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63 Hype Explosion for the Summer of "Not E3"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 17 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Summer Games Fest, Sony State of Play, Xbox + Bethesda, Wholesome Games Direct, and MUCH more. We pluck out our most hyped game announcements, some interesting gems, and the biggest reveals of the "Not E3" season. Plus, we discuss your reactions to the summer game lists and what you're currently playing.

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62 Diablo Immortal and the Ethics of "Free-to-Play"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 10 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Colette has gone hard on Diablo Immortal, both as a player and in covering its business model, which has made headlines this week for its loot boxy mechanics and exorbitant end-game price tag.

But if you get 40-100 hours out of a grindy game you love for free, is it really a problem? This week we discuss the ethics of the Free-to-Play business model, and the nuances that make some free games fantastic, while others prey on our darkest vices.

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61 Do You Guys Not Have Phones?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 3 Jun 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Somehow, Colette doesn't know who beloved children's singer Raffi is, but we'll do the show anyway.

This week, mobile/PC hybrid Diablo Immortal is upon us, so Colette shares her first impressions. We also discuss the legacy of the Baldur's Gate series and how long is too long to wait for Baldur's Gate 3 to be completed.

Also, Matt paid 71 cents for a video game. Was it worth it? Choice paralysis, 13 Sentinels, and the value of niche streaming services.

Also, we've joined the HyperX Podcast Network!

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60 The "Baywatch" of Video Games (w/ Dan Lingen, Game Creator Community Dir. @ Xbox)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 27 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Destructoid alum Dan "Husky" Lingen joins us this week to go deep on media theory, the evolution of Internet communities, and of course...video games! He recently joined Xbox as the Game Creator Community Director, where he works with developers to empower their online fans. He's also worked at EA, Twitch, and Ubisoft, and explains how covering video games in the mid-2000s positioned him to realize the dream of joining the games industry.

We reminisce about a less crowded Internet, why the Web is more inclusive today but harder to break through, and our hope that the future has more small communities and less news feeds.

Also, Colette reveals the title of her forthcoming book (!!!), which has nothing to do with Baywatch unfortunately.

Dan is playing: Superliminal
Colette is playing: Faith
Matt is playing: Ingress

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59 How a Minecraft Server for Autistic Kids Became the Best Place on the Internet

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 20 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Stuart Duncan is the dad of an autistic son, and he's also autistic himself. So when he learned that autistic Minecraft players were being bullied on popular servers, he set out to create a safe and inclusive virtual space for the autism community. The moment he announced it, parents lined up in droves, hoping their kids could join.

Today, the server has 15,000 members, and Stuart has quit his job as a software developer to manage, moderate, and customize the server for kids (and their families) who communicate and play their own way.

Stuart joins us to discuss the origins of Autcraft, why he still relies on the Java Edition of Minecraft to serve his community, and the power of safe, custom virtual worlds for neurodiverse players.

If you're as moved as we are by Stuart's story, you can support Autcraft on Patreon to keep "The Best Place on the Internet" going for years to come: https://www.patreon.com/autcraft

https://www.autcraft.com/

Stuart's playing: Left 4 Dead 2
Colette's playing: More Ghostwire: Tokyo
Matt's playing: Space Haven

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58 The Video Game Music That Stays With Us

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 13 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Music instantly transports us to familiar and emotional places — even those made of pixels. When you spend 60-100 hours in a virtual world, its sounds can deeply affect you.

This week, we share the game soundtracks that changed us, and remain with us long after the credits rolled. We also explore the rich online (and IRL) culture of VGM covers and remixes, and why getting new towels is so much fun for elderly people like us.

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

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57 Chrono Kross'll Make Ya (Sad! Sad!)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 6 May 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Why is the Chrono Cross re-release port so bad? Because God is dead, that's why. Also, have you heard of Roblox? It's popular with YOUTHS.

This week we discuss how our gaming lifestyles have evolved — especially in the context of a work-from-home pandemic — and share what you (and we) are playing this week.

Colette's playing: Kirby & Ghostwire: Tokyo
Matt's playing: Dorfromantik & 13 Sentinels: Aeigis Rim & Switch Sports

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56 The Steam Deck Is the Future of Video Games (But Not for the Reasons You Think)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 29 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Matt got a Q2 Steam Deck, so buckle up for some blabbing about why it's AWESOME, kinda weird, and a huge step toward a new future for PC games. Colette reveals why Ghostwire: Tokyo keeps her hooked, despite not caring about the storyline, and a peek at the Southern charm of Norco.

Colette's playing: Ghostwire: Tokyo & Norco
Matt's playing: Everything on THE S T E A M D E C K

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55 Kirby's Copy Abilities, RANKED

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 15 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

If BONKING puppies in the face with a giant hammer is wrong, then we don't want to be right!

Cutter, Hammer, Ice, Bombs, ... Sleep? This week we stack rank Kirby's Forgotten Land copy abilities from worst-to-best, but end up mostly talking about Korean pop music for some reason.

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54 Punching Rocks on Tatooine

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 8 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

When you really think about it, Kirby is just a puppy murdering simulator. This week we discuss the legacy of the Mana series, Chrono Cross and Radical Dreamers, what's up with Norco, some positive developments in the Activision Blizzard situation, and who the "metaverse" is really for.

Also, have you heard of STAR WARS?

Colette's playing: Ghostwire: Tokyo & Kirby and the Forgotten Land
Matt's playing: LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

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53 Old Men Yell at JRPGs (with Sky Burkson)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 1 Apr 2022 07:00:00 +0000

Colette is tending to urgent home repair matters this week, so miniature artist, streamer, and Souls-enthusiast Sky Burkson joins Matt to talk about the hidden difficulty slider in Elden Ring, and why "git gud" misses the point of what makes Soulsborne games great. We also reveal the incredibly hot take that Kirby is...pretty fun.

Also, WHY DON'T THEY MAKE JRPGs LIKE THE GOOD OLD DAYS???!!!1?

Sky's playing: Inscryption, The Blue King Collection, & Elden Ring
Matt's playing: Kirby and the Forgotten Land & Triangle Strategy

See Sky's amazing art and follow him on the social medias! https://www.skyburkson.com/

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52 Super Information Highway

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 25 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

This week we pluck some stories from the news, discuss what you're playing, get Ghosty in Tokyo, and Matt gets a free* trip to Istanbul.

Colette's playing: Tunic & Ghostwire: Tokyo
Matt's playing: Triangle Strategy

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51 Sexy Waluigi

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 18 Mar 2022 07:00:00 +0000

This week we accidentally look at some NSFW mousepads on Etsy, notice that Elden Ring sure is popular, Triangulate some Strategy, and discuss what your Stardew Valley spouse says about you.

Matt's playing: Triangle Strategy
Colette's playing: Stardew Valley

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50 Being a Person Is Really Hard

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 11 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

On this 50th anniversary episode of Chat, we solve all the world's problems in about 20 minutes, which leaves plenty of extra time to talk about The Elden Scrolls V: SkyRing.

Colette's playing: Elden Ring
Matt's playing: Into the Breach & more Monster Hunter Rise

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49 Our 5 Favorite Games of All Time (#1)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 4 Mar 2022 08:00:00 +0000

It's finally time to reveal our #1 most favorite game of all time. Also, dat Kirby demoooooo!

Plus: Have you heard of this "Elden Ring" thing?

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48 Our 5 Favorite Games of All Time (#2)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 25 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

The Internet is littered with amazingly talented creators who just couldn't make it work. We discuss this and other online sadness, as well as our SECOND-FAVORITE video games of ALL TIME?

Don't forget to share yours!

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47 Our 5 Favorite Games of All Time (#3)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

It's time to reveal our #3 most favorite game of all time! Will it be Shaq Fu? Probably!

Relevant links from today's episode:

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46 Our 5 Favorite Games of All Time (#4)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 11 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

The list continues! We reveal our 4th personal favorite games of all time to YOU (and each other), and discuss why they deeply matter. Also, we are SHOOK by Nintendo's Direct this week, so we run through all the announcements and react to each one.

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45 brb, afk vol. 5 (Sleepy PC Edition)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 4 Feb 2022 08:00:00 +0000

We're off this week while Colette's PC is on the mend! But we're very excited to hear more of YOUR favorite games of all time, so please keep sharing them in the Discord and by email. See you next week!

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44 Our 5 Favorite Games of ALL TIME (#5)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the first episode in a very special series, where we discuss the 5 most important video games we've ever played, and why. Colette and Matt do not know what the other has picked, and reveal #5 on their lists. We discuss the criteria for our choices, the weight of nostalgia, and what the word "best" and "favorite" mean in this context.

We want to hear YOUR picks! What's your 5th favorite game of all time? Write in to our email: HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

And join our Discord community: https://discord.gg/5xz84B9RRJ

PLUG (not an episode spoiler): Matt's daughter recaps and reviews Chrono Trigger (SNES): https://youtu.be/ZjBxPKZsnwc

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43 We Are Excited to Announce That We Have Acquired Square Enix Co, Ltd.

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

On this very special episode, we are thrilled to share that we have acquired video game publisher Square Enix for $800 billion and will only be making '90s RPGs from now on.

Colette's playing: Littlewood
Matt's playing: Inscryption

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42 What We Want From the Games Industry in 2022

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

With the new year in full swing, we look into the FUTURE and discuss what changes, trends, tech, and design we'd like to see more (and less!) of in 2022.

From VR to #MeToo, it's a rousing conversation, and we'd love to hear your take as well, so please get in touch below!

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41 You Had Me at "Poop Gems"

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 7 Jan 2022 08:00:00 +0000

This week we planned to talk about a topic and then completely didn't even talk about it! Because that's what professional podcasters DO.

Instead, we get real about our favorite ARGs (Alternate Reality Games), feeding squirrels in VR, ethical free-to-play business models, and the only digital currency that matters: Poop Gems.

Colette's playing: Cook Out and Puzzle Quest 3
Matt's playing: Civilization VI and Slime Rancher

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40 What Are Your Gaming New Year's Resolutions?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 31 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

We're taking the week off to enjoy some cozy holiday family time, but we'd love to know: What are your gaming New Year's resolutions? Are you looking to expand your video game diet? Or stop playing everything to focus on one deep experience?

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39 Our (Personal) Games of the Year 2021

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 24 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

We acknowledge that we cannot critically and editorially declare The Chat's official game of the year. We just haven't played enough new releases in 2021. But we have honed in on the 2021 games that brought us the most fun and interest this year.

We also share your favorites, and look forward to playing more of this year's games in 2022.

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38 Star Dews & Star Don'ts (Sky Burkson Returns)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 17 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

We have the power to record and save everything in our lives with the slab of plastic in our pocket. But ... should we? Miniature artist and video game enthusiast Sky Burkson returns as our guest to discuss the philosophical implications of social media, the transitory nature of art, and most importantly: leveling up your dodgeball skills.

Also, remember when animals at the L.A. Zoo made their E3 predictions? Colette sure does: https://www.destructoid.com/the-animals-of-the-l-a-zoo-make-our-e3-2010-predictions/

Sky's playing: Her Story & Dodgeball Academia
Colette's playing: Stardew Valley (Maybe?)
Matt's playing: Evoland

Notable link: Kurko Mods Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/Kurko/posts

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37 Daenerys Targaryen Simulator (with Sky Burkson)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 10 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Colette is recovering from a cold this week, but we called in some backup. Streamer and miniaturist Sky Burkson joins us as a guest co-host in her absence to talk about the explosion of miniature craft online, all things Metroidvania, when games overstay their welcome by 25%, and what we're currently enjoying on the Personal Computer.

Sky's playing: Lunch Lady, Blasphemous and Pony Island
Matt's playing: Rift Wizard and Century: Age of Ashes

Follow Sky on all the things: https://linktr.ee/skyburkson

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36 brb, afk vol. 4 (What Are Your Holiday Gaming Plans?)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 3 Dec 2021 08:00:00 +0000

We've got the week off for family business, but we're excited for the next few episodes of the pod. In the meantime, what are your plans for the holidays? Will you have time to enjoy the back catalog, or will it just be too busy. Get in touch below and we'll Chat with you next week.

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35 Gaming Experiences We're Thankful For

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 26 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

Video games aren't just a whole lot of fun. They're also bonding experiences, therapy, community, and more. This week, we discuss games and game-related things we are thankful for. We hope you've had a fantastic Thanksgiving, and we'll talk with you next week!

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34 Hand Sprinkles

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 19 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

This week we discuss the ongoing misconduct investigations at Activision Blizzard, whether the industry has reached a tipping point toward meaningful change, and representation in games.

Also, why Animal Crossing should just become a live service game already, VR discomfort, the chef's kiss difficulty curve of Metroid Dread, and why holding a naked Switch is a crime.

Colette's playing: Resident Evil 4 VR and Animal Crossing New Horizons: Happy Home Paradise
Matt's playing: Metroid Dread, Unpacking, and Skyrim Anniversary Edition

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33 Pistol Whipped (w/ Antony Stevens of Cloudhead Games)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 12 Nov 2021 08:00:00 +0000

This week we're joined by Antony Stevens, writer and designer at Cloudhead Games, a Canadian VR studio best known for Colette's favorite obsession: Pistol Whip.

It's a VR experience that transcends multiple genres, often referred to as a "first-person shooter, action, rhythm game." It's like if SUPERHOT, Beat Saber, John Wick, and The Matrix had a baby.

We chat with Antony about how Cloudhead was building VR games before there was even a market for them, and why Pistol Whip hit all the right notes just in time for VR's resurgence. Also, player "good will" as a durable business model, and the unforeseen challenges of VR development.

Antony's playing: Inscryption & Unpacking
Colette's playing: Animal Crossing: New Horizons (DLC & Update)
Matt's playing: Paper Beast

Follow Antony: https://twitter.com/thermyy

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32 Unfinished Business

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 5 Nov 2021 07:00:00 +0000

This week we discuss our biggest regrets in life. Not the jobs we missed or the bucket lists we scrapped, but of course: the video games we never finished.

Games are an enormous time and emotional commitment! But grind, difficulty spikes, and plot disappointments can lead to piles of unfinished quests, even when we love what we're playing. We also discuss your unfinished games and why you left them behind.

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31 Telephone Games

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 29 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Ten years ago, we all turned our noses up at casual app store gotcha games. But the Free-to-Play model has evolved, often to be more ethical. Our phones have 20x more horsepower. Today, we can carry MMOs in our pockets. And as busy adults, often the mobile form factor is the entry point for new game genres.

This week we discuss mobile games we're enjoying , the horror game pantheon, and regrets from blogposts gone by.

Colette's playing: Hungry Hearts Diner 2 and Resident Evil 4
Matt's playing: Metroid Dread and EVE Echoes

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30 Non-Fungible Memes

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 22 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

There's just something about the image, text, and mood of memes that make them such a precise communication vehicle. We discuss some of our favorites, what's up with NFTs, what you've been playing, and of course, what we've been playing.

Colette's Playing: Unpacking and Inscryption
Matt's Playing: Spiritfarer and EVE Echoes

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29 brb, afk vol. 3

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 15 Oct 2021 04:00:00 +0000

Matt calls Colette to find out what the hell is going on.

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28 Gaming With ADHD

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 8 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

What is it about video games that lights up the brains of neurodiverse people, specifically those with ADHD?

This week we have a very personal conversation about growing up with brains that demand more from your average media, and how games have expanded in ways that bring comfort (and fixation!) to those of us who have a hard time when bored. We also discuss how laser-focused enthusiasm has developed into an entire industry in the Internet Age, making it an extraordinary time to be neurodiverse.

Also, wise words (and poetry?) for when our brains fixate on the wrong kind of stuff.

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27 Vidya Games From The Cloud

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 1 Oct 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Netflix's recent acquisition of Oxenfree developer Night School got us thinking about the future of game streaming services. High quality games beaming down from the Cloud™ to any device is so close we can taste it. And yet it's so complicated and far away. We discuss our hopes and dreams for game streaming services, and the uphill battle Netflix will face against Microsoft, Amazon, and others.

Also, why we hate the cultural baggage around the word "gamer."

Colette's playing: Actraiser Renaissance
Matt's playing: Griftlands

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26 AOL Instant Messenger Sounds

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

This week we get nostalgic for software environments: buttons, interfaces, and of course the sounds of '90s online chatrooms. But more importantly, GAMES!

We discuss everything you're playing this week, the joy (and danger) of getting hooked on one live service game forever, the wholesome vibes of video game photography, and keeping shop on Nintendo Switch.

Also, our review of W A V E S of D E A T H, a first-person shooter where you can't move for some reason and the protagonist uses misogynistic slurs from a discount audio library.

Colette's playing: TOEM
Matt's playing: Moonlighter

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

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25 brb, afk (Steam Roulette Edition)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 17 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Colette & Matt are off this week due to scheduling conflicts, but we still hope you'll take part in our GRAND EXPERIMENT called Steam Roulette. Last week we picked a random-ass Steam game and we're forcing ourselves to play it. We hope you'll give it a shot!

See you next week with the results.

Join us in the Discord: https://discord.com/invite/5xz84B9RRJ

Get the Waves of Death free demo here: https://store.steampowered.com/app/858740/Waves_of_Death/

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24 WAVES-OF-DEATH.exe

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 10 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Printers. You can't live with them, you can't throw them in a lake. Or can you?

Colette stopped playing video games all week because she's watching some sort of anime from the '80s. But we still have PLENTY to talk about, including the maiden voyage of a new segment possibly titled: Steam Roulette!

We'll spin the wheel and choose a RANDOM game from the entire Steam catalog. As long as the game isn't $800, we are forced to play it! It could be a turd or a hidden gem!

But there's more: We'd like you to play it with us. Join the Discord (below) or send us an email to get involved.

Luckily, this week's game has a free demo. Download it, play it, and tell us what you think! We'll also be streaming the game in a Discord hangout later in the week, timing TBD.

We rolled the dice "live," and our first Steam Roulette game is.... Waves of Death: https://store.steampowered.com/app/858740/Waves_of_Death/

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23 Pure Rogue Juice

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 3 Sep 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Grinding gets a bad rap, but when the carrot is juicy enough, the grind is worth the squeeze. This week we discuss what makes a Roguelike (or Roguelite) game stick. It's often a combination of mechanics, feel, forward momentum, story, and aesthetics. When all of these hit the mark, even non-Rogue players can find their groove.

Also, the relaxing feeling of pure, unbridled killing.

Colette is still playing: Returnal
Matt is playing: Spelunky and Townscaper

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

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22 Tetris Connect: Affected

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 27 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

When is it worth replaying old favorites when there's an infinite amount of new games to play? What if tomorrow, all new games stopped coming out forever and we could only play things that came before?

These philosophical quandaries and MORE await you in this week's Chat. Also, why forward momentum is so important in Roguelikes, and the spiritual mindfulness of great Tetris.

Colette's playing: Returnal
Matt's playing: Tetris Effect: Connected

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21 Buying Dog Hats (with Lisa Blakie of Runaway Games)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 20 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

This week we welcome Lisa Blakie, narrative designer for Colette's new favorite game, Old Friends Dog Game, a pet sim where you run a shelter for elderly dogs that also exists in the real world.

Lisa shares the fascinating story of the shelter's rise to prominence online, and the origin of the beloved game. She also explains the ethos of Runaway Games, a small New Zealand studio making mobile experiences about the natural world.

Also, have you heard of Chess?

Lisa is playing: If Found...
Colette is playing: Overcooked 2
Matt is playing: Chess

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20 PC Master Race to the Bottom

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

We can't believe this is Episode 20! Those two decades flew by.

How about Steam, eh? It gives us unlimited access to thousands of PC games that will sit in our library and never get played. Is there a better way to keep track of the dreaded "Steam Backlog?"

This week we discuss the Steam ecosystem, what we (mostly) love about it, the longevity of PC gaming, and the paralysis of choice when it comes to finding something new to play.

Also, an adorable mobile clicker about shelter dogs...where you can adopt the dogs in REAL LIFE?! Also, sailing some incredibly emergent pirate-infested waters.

Colette's playing: Pistol Whip: Smoke and Thunder, Old Friends Dog Game

Matt's playing: Sea of Thieves

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19 Easy Mode (With Alex Q. Ryan, Sr. PR @ Koch Media)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 6 Aug 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Today we learned the valuable lesson that no matter how fond you are of a classic game, you can't pass your own nostalgia to your kids.

Destructoid/RetroforceGO alum Alex Q. Ryan joins us this week, and after a lot of screaming and virtual hugs, he explains what he does these days as the Senior PR Manager at Koch Media, working on franchises likes Saints Row, Metro, Dead Island, and the upcoming release Hot Wheels Unleashed.

We discuss saying goodbye to a massive retro game collection, start a feud between Windows and Mac lovers, and find out if "Easy Mode" is in fact for baby-ass babies.

Follow Alex: https://twitter.com/AlexQRyan

Alex is playing: Death's Door
Colette is playing: NEKOPARA - Catboys Paradise & The Ascent
Matt is playing: Sea of Thieves

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18 The Best Retro Emulator Is Your Mind Bro

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 30 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Are CRT filters a silly gimmick, or the way God intended retro games to be played? A great listener email kicks off a discussion about how art and media are viewed through the lens of time.

Also, that feeling when you find a new game that really speaks to you, and you can't wait to play it.

Colette's playing: Layers of Fear 2
Matt's playing: Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age

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17 Legend of Skyward Steam Deck HD (with Aaron Linde, Narrative Designer at 343 Industries)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 23 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

This week we're joined by Colette's old friend from Destructoid, Aaron Linde. These days, Aaron is a writer and narrative designer for AAA video games, including Gears of War, Battleborn, Destiny 2, and an upcoming, little-known indie darling called Halo Infinite.

We reminisce about ye olden days of digital media, Aaron's leap into the fascinating world of game dev, and the big news on everyone's mind: Should I pre-order the Steam Deck so I can finally play Rimworld in the bathtub?

Also, we look back at The Legend of Zelda: Skyward Sword in a post-BoTW world. And is Monster Hunter Stories a "real" Monster Hunter game?

Aaron's playing: Skyward Sword HD and Wind Waker
Colette's playing: Monster Hunter Stories 2: Wings of Ruin
Matt's playing: Titanfall 2 and Final Fantasy XII: The Zodiac Age

Follow Aaron on Twitter: https://twitter.com/aaronlinde

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16 brb, afk

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 16 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Colette is in a forest this week, so we're looking ahead to some cool guests and exciting things in the weeks to come.

In the meantime, please send in what you're currently playing. We'd love to Chat™ about it next week!

haveenteredthechat@gmail.com

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15 Who Is the New Nintendo Switch OLED Model For?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 9 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

The Nintendo Switch OLED Model is here, and we're not sure the point of it? We discuss why the negative reaction in the gaming community will probably have zero effect on sales, and possible future iterations of the Switch hardware line.

Also, does playing and watching a lot of horror make you more resistant to being scared? And why some games are great to watch on stream, but not necessarily to play. We also discuss the exciting but uncertain future of cloud gaming.

Also: Colette's going to get lost in a forest, but in real life (for some reason).

Colette's playing: Layers of Fear
Matt's playing: Cyber Hook and family Minecraft

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14 Why God Quit Rocket League (w/ God from The God Pod)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 2 Jul 2021 07:00:00 +0000

We enjoy playing simulations, but what about the ultimate simulation: Life? We have burning questions for The Maker, and are thrilled to be in the presence of God to ask Him about the most important topic, video games.

God shares His favorite games and what He's played recently, including Red Dead Redemption, Civilization, and why kids yell at him while playing Rocket League.

We also unravel the greatest mysteries of the Cosmos, including (but not limited to): Why do Madden games suck now? Where are all the good Star Trek games? And why do the Backstreet Boys live in Heaven?

If you keep the faith, be sure to follow God on social media:

And check out The God Pod, where God, Jesus, Satan, Moses and the gang chat with comedians about the abject failure that is Humanity: https://kite.link/thegodpod

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

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13 Would You Play a Nintendo Live-Service Game?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 25 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

This week we continue our quest to find out what lives in the Venn diagram where a "Colette Game" and a "Matt Game" overlap. The answer might be Sable, an upcoming nomadic desert hoverbike adventure.

Also, why doesn't Nintendo make any live service games? And if they did, what franchises make the most sense?

Speaking of online games, Animal Crossing: New Horizons vs. Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp, and why we all broke our island economies during the pandemic.

Colette's playing: Sable (Demo)

Matt's re-playing: Darkest Dungeon: Ancestral Edition

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12 E3 Debrief (w/ Saira Mueller, Editor at WIRED Games)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 18 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

E3 2021 has come and gone, and there are TOO MANY GAMES to keep track of. But there are a few that have our full attention.

This week we're joined by WIRED Games editor and esports journalist Saira Mueller, who tells us about the time she wished for a SNES and got a lame-ass Playstation instead. Saira shares what she's currently playing, and the games she's looking forward to.

Also, why don't they make controllers for different sized hands?

Saira's playing: Cozy Grove, Spyro, It Takes Two
Colette's playing: The Last Campfire
Matt's playing: Super Bomberman R Online

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https://twitter.com/SairaMueller
https://www.instagram.com/sairamueller/

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11 Our Most Hyped Games

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 11 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

E3 and Summer Game Fest 2021 is upon us, and the trailers are flying in faster than we can keep up. We asked you what new titles, sequels, DLCs, and tech you're most hyped about for 2021 and beyond. We share our excitement for the near and far-flung future of games.

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

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10 What 3 Games Would You Bring to a Deserted Island?

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 4 Jun 2021 07:00:00 +0000

You're on a deserted island for the rest of your natural life, but you have a magical device and Internet connection that lets you play only 3 video games. You can get all the updates, DLC, mods, and multiplayer you want, and you can communicate with other players outside of the game ... but you can never play anything else. What do you bring?

Also, there's a fish with teeth on the Battle Net installation screen.

Email us with your picks: HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

Take the Meyers-Briggs gamer test in Colette's Discord: https://discord.gg/682mwYgx

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09 The Gaming Historian, Norman Caruso

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 28 May 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Norman Caruso, aka The Gaming Historian, has been meticulously documenting the history of video games (and their weird peripherals!) on YouTube since 2008. It took him 7 years before this passion project became a full-time job. More than 90 million views later, his channel is among the most rigorous and well-respected in the world of games journalism. Norman has covered topics as ubiquitous a Tetris and Super Mario Bros. 3, all the way down to failed tech like the Sega Mega Modem and an IRL fishing module for the Game Boy.

We chat with Norman about how he got his start, why primary-source historical research takes so long, how he chooses topics, why it's OK to be wrong sometimes, and why you may never see a Pokémon video on his channel.

Colette's playing: Demeo VR, a D&D-style tabletop campaign in virtual reality
Norman's playing: Apex Legends, everyone's favorite competitive co-op shooter
Matt's playing: More Subnautica BZ and Deep Rock Galactic

Subscribe to The Gaming Historian on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnbvPS_rXp4PC21PG2k1UVg

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08 The Only Good Water Level Is Subnautica

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 21 May 2021 07:00:00 +0000

What draws people into MMOs and live service games? And if one game keeps evolving and adding content, maybe we don't need to play as many new games?

We discuss your love of Destiny 2 and Final Fantasy XIV, why Matt played 500 hours of Warframe (and then had to stop), and why Colette doesn't like to play online (except in Diablo 2). Also, is Destiny just Space Diablo in 3D? Also, the classic days of WoW, Everquest, and EVE Online.

Also, Colette is obsessed with (watching) Resident Evil Village, and discusses the difference between "helpless horror" and a "power fantasy." Matt is obsessed with Subnautica: Below Zero, which has a whole lot more Subnautica in it, which means it's the best ever!

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07 Games We Loved That Don't Stand the Test of Time

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 14 May 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Games are such a young medium. Also, a rapidly evolving one. So it's not surprising when we return to a game we played years ago (especially in our youth) to find the life-changing experience we remember is actually kind of ... meh?

This week, we discuss the subjectivity of games as an art form on a continuum of culture, technology, and personal growth. Sometimes games are still great in their historical context, even if we don't like playing them in 2021. And sometimes, old games are true masterpieces that transcend their technological and cultural contexts.

We also discuss your favorite games from the past that may or may not stand the test of time.

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

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06 Who Is Todd Snap? (with Chelsea Stark, Executive Editor at Polygon)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 7 May 2021 07:00:00 +0000

New Pokémon Snap is here, and apparently there's a character in it named Todd Snap? So says Chelsea Stark, the Executive Editor at an up-and-coming video game website we like to call Polygon.com.

This week in chat, we discuss the sublime pleasures of bad games we still love to play. Also, can math ever be fun? Also, why won't Pokémon respect the "rule of thirds?" And WTF *is* picross, anyway?

What we're playing:

New Pokémon Snap, featuring Todd Snap!
Murder By Numbers, a '90s-themed visual novel + puzzle game
Legend of Keepers, a reverse dungeon crawler where you control the monsters
Monster Hunter Rise, because what's better than smashing a dinosaur in the face with a hammer?

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

Follow Chelsea Stark: https://twitter.com/chelseabot

Listen to Galaxy Brains, Polygon's new podcast hosted by Dave Schilling and Jonah Ray: https://www.polygon.com/22384444/galaxy-brains-polygon-podcast-entertainment-movies-tv

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05 How to Play NES Games in VR

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 30 Apr 2021 07:00:00 +0000

When did nerd culture shift from being passé to the dominant force across all media? Where did all your fan fiction go before the Internet? Remember Blockbuster??

Also, we make a decision on which '90s Star Trek to binge. Also, how did anime get so mainstream? Also, the difference between simple games, and complex games that are easy to access.

And, you can play the original NES Zelda and Dragon Warrior in VR now for some reason?!

What we're playing:

Cozy Grove: Animal Crossing meets Spiritfarer (but not really!)
3DSen PC: Play NES classics in VR via some sort of witchcraft!
Deep Rock Galactic: Co-Op space dwarves that combines the best things of other games!

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

From our discussion: "Why Do Japanese Characters Look White?" https://kotaku.com/why-do-japanese-characters-look-white-5627268

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04 Does Dave Grohl Play 'Rock Band?' (with Sean Baptiste from Bethesda)

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 23 Apr 2021 07:00:00 +0000

This week we're joined by the wonderful Sean Baptiste, whose long career in the games industry led him to become the senior PR and streaming manager for Bethesda Softworks. Today, he works with influencers large and small on the publisher's biggest franchises like "Doom" and "Fallout."

We talk with Sean about his extremely diverse career path (which includes play writing, standup comedy, and finding bugs in "Guitar Hero,"), what he's been playing lately, and that time he played "Rock Band" for Dave Grohl at the Grammys.

Also, what makes a great "Persona" game, the extraordinary work that goes into Twitch streaming, and how great game design turns complex systems into an effortless groove. Plus, your emails!

Colette's playing:

Persona 5 Strikers: Classic Persona style and story with very intense action combat

Sean's playing:

Wrestling Empire, a deep and weird wrestling career sim that throws back to the N64 era

Matt's playing:

Not Valheim (because it still runs poorly) but a return to No Man's Sky after many huge updates

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

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03 Playing 'The Legend of Zelda' (NES) Every Year

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 16 Apr 2021 07:00:00 +0000

Why does Colette play the original "Legend of Zelda" every year? It's about way more than just nostalgia. Also, what's the deal with Hello Kitty, which '90s "Star Trek" is the best, and the JRPGs that fooled us by pretending to be good.

What Colette is playing:

No Time to Relax: Spiritual successor to Sierra's classic life sim "Jones in the Fast Lane"

What Matt is NOT playing:

Pac-Man 99: It's Pac-Man but craaaazy!
Tracks: Toybox Edition: Toy trains but VIRTUAL, baby
Katamari Damacy REROLL: Fuck this game.

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02 The Alchemy of a Perfect Game

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 9 Apr 2021 07:00:00 +0000

What makes a game "stick" for you? And what happens when a game has every ingredient you love and you're still not feeling it? Colette & Matt share email from a new listener, discuss why challenge is both motivating and off-putting, and why personal headspace is a key ingredient in whether or not a game becomes an obsession. Also: Should you buy a Nintendo DS in 2021, quitting Hollow Knight, cross-cultural humor, and Colette is fully vaxxed!

What we're playing:

Rhythm Doctor, the perfect homage to / fresh take on Rhythm Heaven!
Star Wars: Squadrons, competitive, emergent gameplay + pew-pew!

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

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01 We Quit Gaming Crack for at Least 1 Minute

HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com (Colette & Matt) — Fri, 2 Apr 2021 14:54:21 +0000

It's our very first episode! This week, we talk about the gaming loops that keep us coming back for more, why we love to focus on one game at a time (whenever possible!), why Twitch and Discord are so special, and ye olden days of social media and games journalism.

What we're playing:

Silent Hill 2 Enhanced Edition, a fan-made remaster of the horror classic
Magic:Legends, a Diablo-style ARPG with Magic cards
Loop Hero, a game that has no discernable genre!
The Museum of Other Realities, a social VR art museum with mind-bending exhibits

Email us with what you're playing and we'll read it on the show! HaveEnteredTheChat@gmail.com

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https://twitter.com/colettebennett
https://www.twitch.tv/hellococobee

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https://www.youtube.com/c/freedadvideos

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Colette & Matt Have Entered the Chat

244 JUMP SPACE Might Be the Space Game I've Been Waiting For

243 You Should Try The 'Tomodachi Life' Demo

242 We Have Questions About Nvidia's New DLSS 5

241 Resident Evil, but Make It Sexy

240 "Vampire Crawlers" Is Not Your Average Deck Builder

239 Two Boomers Agree Things Ain't What They Used to Be: RAMpocalypse Edition

238 I Don't Want to Be a Chicken Man: Sony's State of Play, Feb 2026

237 So, how about that new Tomodachi Life video, eh?

236 Should Video Game Critics Be Less Negative?

235 We Only Play Video Games From the 2010s Now

234 What Are the Most Overrated Video Games?

233 Our 5 Favorite Games of 2025 (Part 2)

232 Our Top 5 Games of 2025 (Part 1)

231 Our Favorite Announcements From the 2025 Game Awards

230 Finally, a Video Game Where You Can Make Bugs Kiss | Everything From Wholesome Snack 2025

229 Nine Reasons 'Arc Raiders' Is the Best Multiplayer Video Game I've Ever Played (+Steam Games on Your Telephone?!)

228 What *Is* an "Indie" Video Game, Anyway?

227 SteamOS Is Coming to a Livingroom Near You, But How Much Will It Cost?

226 An Oral History of Video Game Oral Histories 🎮 With Matt Leone of Design Room

225 "Arc Raiders" Nails the Vibes and Tension for a Perfect Extraction Shooter

224 It's Finally Here: Why BALL x PIT Does Everything Right

223 What Is This Mysterious Short Film on Nintendo's YouTube Channel?

222 What's the Value Proposition of Xbox Game Pass in 2025?

221 Is "Silent Hill f" the Best Silent Hill Ever?

220 We Need to Talk About That Unhinged Nintendo Direct

219 What Makes "Hollow Knight" the Best of Its Genre? (w/ Silksong Maniac Sky Burkson)

218 Silksong (Literally) Breaks the Internet and What Is the Mysterious "Steam Frame?"

217 Expedition 33 [SPOILERCAST] / Why We Need a Game About Grief More Than Ever

216 You Should Play This Dirt-Cheap Isometric Zombie Extraction Shooter

215 Building a New (Old?) Model for Games Journalism, One Subscriber at a Time (w/ Luke Plunkett)

214 Silksong Confirmed (to not be) at Nintendo's Partner Direct

213 Banks Are Deciding What Video Games You're Allowed to Buy, and It's Not the First Time (w/ games journalist Ana Valens)

212 "Donkey Kong Bananza" Is Pure Video Game Joy

211 It's Official: Stardew Is the Highest Rated Game of All Time

Introducing: TALES FROM THE CLOUD SEA, an improvised comedy adventure podcast for kids and families!

210 Overwhelmingly Negative

209 BALL x PIT = Vampire Survivors + Arkanoid + Tetris(?) + City Builder + Peggle

208 LET ME PUT A HAT ON MY GOOMBA YOU COWARDS

207 State of Play, Summer Game Fest, Wholesome Games, Xbox Showcase, Switch 2...

206 The Most Popular Game on Earth Was Made By a Teenager in 3 Days (and You've Probably Never Heard of It)

205 AI Darth Vader Is an Interesting Idea That Blew Up In Fortnite's Face

204 "Wildgate" Is My Favorite Game of 2025 and I Will Literally Die If It Doesn't Come Out Soon

203 The New GTA 6 Trailer Has S-Tier Butt Animations

202 Stop What You're Doing and Play "Clair Obcsur: Expedition 33" Immediately

201 Discord Gets a New CEO and Oblivion Gets a Facelift

200 We Now Return To Tariff Talk™, Already In Progress

199 A $90 video game? In this economy? Nintendo Switch 2 Has Entered the Chat

198 Everything Announced at the Nintendo Switch March Direct

197 Our Favorite Reveals From the Future Games Show

196 All Your "Pokémon GO" Data Now Belongs to the Saudi Government

195 "Monster Hunter Wilds" Runs and Looks Like Shit, But...

194 Our Favorite Demos From Steam Next Fest 2025

193 'Marvel Rivals' Made $3 Billion. So Why Did the Entire U.S. Team Get Fired?

192 Sony's State of Play Had Tons of Bangers and No Sony Games

191 Steam Just Released an Amazing New Feature We Love

190 You Should Play "Eternal Strands"

189 Thirteen Games We Can't Wait to Play in 2025

188 It's Official: The Nintendo Switch 2 Is Exactly What We Thought

187 Is This What the Switch 2 Really Looks Like?

186 Our 2024 Games of the Year (aka "You Can't Hear a Tattoo)

185 What We Want From a SteamOS Console (and Happy Holidays!)

184 The Game Awards Just Tripled Our Wishlists

183 Colette's True Love Revealed in Scandalous Leaked Audio

182 Please Let These Steam Controller 2 Leaks Be True

181 We Must Resist Buying This Sexy-Ass New Steam Deck

180 It's Official: The "Switch 2" Will Be Backwards Compatible

179 You Can Finally* Listen to Nintendo Music on the Internet

178 We Have to Talk About Nintendo's Weird MMO Playtest

177 Stop What You're Doing and Play These 7 Free Demos Now (w Sky Burkson)

176 Nintendo's Big Hardware Announcement Is ... this friggin' alarm clock?

175 Ubisoft's Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

174 "Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom" Is a Wonderful Game That Runs Like Hot Garbage

173 WTF Is Going On With "Flappy Bird?"

172 I Can't Stop Thinking About "Baldur's Gate 3," Please Send Help

171 "Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom" Sure Does Look Like a Good Video Game

170 Our Big Faves From Gamescom 2024 & Nintendo's Partner Direct

169 How Did the Video Game Industry Get So Brutal for Workers? (w/ Dr. Johanna Weststar)

168 Only 34 Players Have Seen This Secret "Baldur's Gate 3" Ending

167 RIP "Game Informer," Dead at 33

228 What Is an "Indie" Video Game, Anyway?